Oscar De La Hoya suggested over the weekend that he could be the next boxing legend to return to the ring. But Terence Crawford’s reaction perfectly explained why the 53-year-old should stay.
It has recently become common in the sport for great boxers to return to the ring after a decade or more away. Mike Tyson has fought two exhibition bouts since 2020, despite being in his 50s. Manny Pacquiao had one championship fight last year at the age of 46. And Floyd Mayweather last week announced plans to end his exhibition tour for an official fight.
After this weekend, boxing fans may have to add gold medalist De La Hoya to that list. Following his big win over Golden Boy fighter Ryan Garcia, De La Hoya posted a video on Instagram of himself shadowboxing in the backyard and said, “Inspired last night. My journey starts today.”
In the video, the six-division champion looked to be in great shape and moving quite well. On the surface, he seemed like a man ready for another fight. Then a comment on Terence Crawford’s post revealed why a return to the ring might be a bad idea.
Crawford wrote, “Shake your head, champ, and give me some upper body action.”
This is a smart and honest critique of the video. But it also explains why the returns may not be worth the risks. While Oscar De La Hoya’s arm movement looked great and his legs were solid, there was no head or shoulder movement. His chin will be an immovable target for potential opponents.
Considering the success De La Hoya has had as a promoter, it doesn’t seem fair to suffer some brain damage for another moment of glory.
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