Oscar De La Hoya, known as ‘The Golden Boy,’ remains one of boxing’s most iconic figures. With an illustrious career that started with a Gold Medal at the 1992 Olympics, De La Hoya transitioned to the professional ranks under immense pressure, which he handled with grace, remaining undefeated through his first 31 fights.
De La Hoya’s first professional defeat came at the hands of Felix Trinidad, followed by losses to boxing legends Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao, Shane Mosley, and his current business partner, Bernard Hopkins. Despite these setbacks, De La Hoya’s career achievements are monumental, having won world titles in six different weight divisions. His victory list includes some of the sport’s greatest names, such as Ike Quartey, Julio Cesar Chavez, and Pernell Whitaker.
In a recent feature with The Ring Magazine, De La Hoya highlighted Pernell Whitaker as the most skillful fighter he ever faced. “Whitaker had to be one of the most skillful fighters in any generation – the fact he could stay right in front of you and could still slip the punches,” De La Hoya explained. “Whitaker wasn’t a runner; he was just someone who stood right in front of you and knew how to slip. Whitaker knew how to knock you out, too. Punching power, skill, I.Q. – Whitaker had it all. He’s probably one of the all-around best boxers I faced.”
De La Hoya moved from 140 to 147 pounds in the late nineties, immediately challenging the undefeated WBC Champion Whitaker, who had an incredible record of 42 fights without a loss and had held the title for four years. Billed as ‘Pound for Pound,’ the fight ended with De La Hoya winning via unanimous decision, although many believed Whitaker did the better work with his jab and even secured a knockdown.
While De La Hoya’s career soared, Whitaker’s declined rapidly. His next victory was nullified after a positive cocaine test, and two subsequent losses led to his retirement. Despite this, Whitaker is remembered for his exceptional defensive skills and his significant impact on the sport. Tragically, Whitaker passed away in 2019 at the age of 55 after being struck by a car.
Oscar De La Hoya’s career is a testament to his talent and resilience in the face of formidable opponents and setbacks. His reflections on Pernell Whitaker underscore the respect and admiration he holds for one of the sport’s true legends. As ‘The Golden Boy’ continues to influence the world of boxing, his legacy, along with that of his toughest opponents, remains firmly etched in the annals of boxing history.
