Oscar De La Hoya, former world champion and founder of Golden Boy Promotions, spoke out after the third Zuffa Boxing event. He used his usual Instagram video to express disappointment with UFC CEO Dana White’s boxing venture.
De La Hoya said:
“You call people mentally ill when they don’t agree with you, but guess what, motherfcker: We’re just telling the facts. I have never in my entire life seen someone truly believe they’re actually killing it while they’re actually doing jack sht.”
Criticism of Fighter Selection
De La Hoya argued that Zuffa Boxing focuses on fighters at the end of their careers or those who are not elite. He explained that even when big names appear, they are included for promotional reasons rather than competitive merit.
He said, “Zuffa (Boxing) is officially a failed science project. I had no idea there was a show on Sunday. Zuffa is filled with fighters on the tail end of their careers or who just can’t make it at the highest level. And if they do get some big names at Zuffa, it would only be because they’re donated from Turki. They’re basically hosting club shows in the basement of UFC in front of 50 people.”
Control Over Fighters and Branding
De La Hoya also criticized the promotion for forcing fighters to wear generic gear, limiting their ability to build their own brand.
“They strip fighters of all their individuality, making them wear nasty generic shorts to blend in for the sake of the product. They make it impossible for fighters to grow their own brands,” he explained.
The Belt and Its Significance
The Zuffa Boxing championship belt also drew criticism. De La Hoya argued it has no history or importance compared to traditional boxing belts.
“And Jesus, don’t get me started on the made-up belt. They actually made up a belt, and they want you to believe it has generational value. My f*cking Tom Ford belt has more history and significance,” he said.
This is not the first time De La Hoya and White have clashed publicly, but the launch of Zuffa Boxing has increased tension. De La Hoya’s comments highlight his belief that the promotion does not respect the sport or its athletes.
He emphasized that the product lacks credibility, and serious boxing fans will not take it seriously.
