Pacquiao: De La Hoya fight is my greatest victory
MANILA, Philippines—Manny Pacquiao tore through legends in his illustrious career but there’s one name he’s put atop the list of his most memorable opponents and that’s the Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya.
Pacquiao said that beating De La Hoya will always be his greatest victory after the two faced each other in 2008.
Article continues after this advertisement“The greatest victory is the De La Hoya fight,” said Pacquiao whose eighth round stoppage of De La Hoya led the Golden Boy Promotions CEO into retirement.
Pacquiao’s fight against De La Hoya was also the first time that he competed at welterweight from his previous bout at lightweight, making it even more special for the Filipino champion.
“You know why? Because I came from 135 to 147. That’s unusual. I mean, not many boxers can do that. I mean, from 122, 126 to 135, and then moving up to 147, what?” said Pacquiao.
Article continues after this advertisementWhile Pacquiao moved up two divisions for the fight, De La Hoya moved down one as he was fighting at super welterweight since 2006.
Though they’ve been cordial with each other, they did trade verbal jabs once or twice in the past.
De La Hoya, back in March, announced that he would be returning to active competition and in that same day Pacquiao decided to post a GIF of their lopsided contest.
Ever the fighter, De La Hoya commented with a cheeky response.
“And still couldn’t take me down drained and all. Love you,” wrote De La Hoya with a kissing emoji.