Floyd Mayweather versus Manny Pacquiao, once dubbed The Fight of the Century, continues to spark debate nearly a decade after their 2015 showdown. The much-anticipated contest, long delayed by protracted negotiations, finally took place with Mayweather securing a victory on points by effectively utilizing his defensive prowess and footwork to outmaneuver Pacquiao.

Oscar De La Hoya, a legendary figure in boxing who has faced both Mayweather and Pacquiao, recently shared his insights on how a prime matchup between the two champions might have unfolded. In an interview with the Philippine Daily Inquirer, De La Hoya did not hesitate to declare his belief that Pacquiao would have emerged victorious if both fighters had clashed in their primes.

“Pacquiao would have beaten him easily. In their prime? Absolutely,” De La Hoya stated confidently. His assessment stems from his firsthand experience in the ring with both fighters and his respect for Pacquiao’s relentless style and resilience.

De La Hoya elaborated on the toll that Pacquiao’s intense career has taken on him, suggesting that it was a significant factor in the 2015 bout. “I’ll tell you the truth – I’ll give Floyd the advantage over Manny any day because Manny has been in wars. Manny has fought better opposition in their prime. He has more wear and tear,” he explained.

The contrasting careers of Mayweather and Pacquiao play a crucial role in De La Hoya’s analysis. While Mayweather maintained a more calculated approach, fighting less frequently and preserving his body, Pacquiao was known for his aggressive style and willingness to engage in grueling battles. This difference, according to De La Hoya, made Mayweather the fresher fighter when they finally met in the ring.

“He has had a longer, better career than Floyd and Floyd fights once a year. He takes care of himself. He trains all the time, so Floyd is fresher. He doesn’t fight like Manny. Pacquiao gets hit and keeps coming. That just wears you down. So I have to give Floyd the advantage, as much as I love Pacquiao,” De La Hoya acknowledged.

Despite his last fight ending in a loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2022, Pacquiao remains a significant figure in the sport. There are whispers of a potential comeback against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, a move that could reignite the excitement surrounding the legendary fighter.

The debate over who would have won in their primes continues to captivate boxing enthusiasts. While Mayweather’s strategic finesse earned him the win in 2015, De La Hoya’s perspective highlights the enduring respect and admiration for Pacquiao’s extraordinary career. Whether or not a prime-era clash between Mayweather and Pacquiao would have ended differently, the legacy of both fighters remains firmly etched in the annals of boxing history.