Renowned Mexican-American boxing promoter Oscar De La Hoya has once again taken to his popular online segment, Clapback Thursday, to voice his unfiltered opinions. Recently, he focused on UFC President Dana White’s latest move into the boxing world. De La Hoya expressed his disappointment and skepticism about this venture, particularly highlighting issues related to fighter pay scales and the sustainability of White’s new boxing league. His critique delves into past failures of similar attempts and questions whether this initiative will gain traction without substantial backing or a roster of fighters.
In addition to financial concerns, De La Hoya also brought up Dana White’s personal reputation, touching on controversial aspects of his character. Despite his harsh words, De La Hoya humorously mentioned that he might still collaborate with White in the future, acknowledging him as part of the broader group of industry figures he regularly interacts with.
De La Hoya's Concerns About Fighter Pay and Sustainability
Oscar De La Hoya raised significant concerns regarding the feasibility of Dana White’s new boxing league. He pointed out that running a successful boxing organization requires not only funding but also a robust roster of talented fighters. Currently, White’s partnership lacks both these critical elements, casting doubt on its long-term viability. The promoter further criticized leaked salary figures, suggesting they would be insufficient to attract top-tier boxers accustomed to much higher earnings.
Elaborating on his critique, De La Hoya argued that professional boxers demand compensation far exceeding what has been proposed for White’s venture. He highlighted how inadequate payment structures could alienate elite athletes such as Canelo Alvarez, who wouldn’t settle for substandard offers. Moreover, he warned that discrepancies between TKO boxer salaries and those of UFC fighters could create resentment within the mixed martial arts community. By drawing attention to historical precedents like Zuffa Boxing's failure, De La Hoya reinforced his belief that White risks repeating past mistakes unless he secures adequate resources and strategic alliances.
A Critical Look at Dana White's Reputation and Future Collaboration
Beyond financial considerations, De La Hoya addressed Dana White’s public image, referencing contentious episodes in his life. These remarks extended beyond professional critiques into more personal territory, reflecting broader perceptions of White among some circles in sports entertainment. Despite voicing strong disapproval, De La Hoya retained a pragmatic stance, indicating openness to potential collaborations under specific circumstances.
De La Hoya concluded his Clapback Thursday episode by acknowledging that while he views many individuals in the boxing circuit—including Dana White—as problematic, professional relationships often necessitate working alongside them. This acknowledgment underscores a realistic approach to navigating complex industries where personal disagreements do not necessarily preclude beneficial partnerships. By concluding on this note, De La Hoya demonstrated a nuanced perspective that balances criticism with practicality, leaving room for future interactions despite current reservations.