
via Getty
NEW YORK, NY – DECEMBER 13: Oscar De La Hoya speaking to the media during the CANELO VS. ROCKY Final Press Conference at Madison Square Garden Dcember 13, 2018 in New York City . (Photo by Bill Tompkins/Getty Images)

via Getty
NEW YORK, NY – DECEMBER 13: Oscar De La Hoya speaking to the media during the CANELO VS. ROCKY Final Press Conference at Madison Square Garden Dcember 13, 2018 in New York City . (Photo by Bill Tompkins/Getty Images)
In the world of boxing, legends are etched in history with sweat, blood, and undeniable talent. Yet, when Oscar De La Hoya, a legend himself, recently tweeted his list of all-time great fighters, the boxing world tilted on its axis. His selection spanned eras and styles, from the indomitable Jack Johnson to the modern maestro Canelo Alvarez.
But what’s odd is not who made the list, but rather who didn’t. The absence of certain names has fans and pundits alike screaming out their respective favorites. De La Hoya’s list, a blend of raw power, graceful technique, and sheer charisma, overlooks some equally formidable contenders.
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Oscar De La Hoya’s Hall of Fame: A List That Stirred the Boxing World
Shifting the focus to the crux of the debate, Oscar De La Hoya’s Twitter post unveils a list that reads like a who’s who of boxing legends. He spotlights the likes of Jack Johnson, Henry Armstrong, Joe Louis, Sugar Ray Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard, Chavez, Mike Tyson, himself (De La Hoya), Floyd Mayweather, and Canelo Alvarez. This roster, handpicked by De La Hoya, traverses different eras and styles, epitomizing the pinnacle of boxing prowess.
Jack Johnson ➡️ Henry Armstrong ➡️ Joe Louis ➡️ Sugar Ray Robinson ➡️ Muhammad Ali ➡️ Sugar Ray Leonard ➡️ Chavez ➡️ Tyson ➡️ Delahoya ➡️ Floyd ➡️ Canelo ➡️ ?????? Who is NEXT?
— Oscar De La Hoya (@OscarDeLaHoya) November 13, 2023
Each name on the list not only represents a chapter in boxing history but also reflects De La Hoya’s personal choice when it comes to greatness in the ring. However, it’s the unspoken part of the narrative – the absent names – that has ignited a storm of fan reactions.
Was Oscar’s list relevant in the modern boxing world?
Delving into the heart of the matter, the reactions to De La Hoya’s list were as varied as they were passionate. Firstly, one fan offered a revision, suggesting Manny Pacquiao deserved a spot above Floyd Mayweather, and hinted at rising stars like Gervonta Davis or Shakur Stevenson as potential future greats.
DelayHoya > Pacquiao* > Floyd – fixed that for you.
Then, Either Tank of Shakur.
Hopefully we find out in 2024
— JuanDeRockefeller III (@elnachitodeoro) November 13, 2023
Meanwhile, another fan asserted a more definitive stance, championing Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis as the rightful successor to this prestigious list.
It’s Tank.
— FIGHT HUB MARCOS (@heyitsmarcosv) November 13, 2023
Conversely, one fan focused on a notable omission. He argued that Manny ‘PacMan’ Pacquiao, a multi-division world champion, was unjustly excluded.
You missed PacMan homie
— Charlie (@thatkidcm) November 13, 2023
Adding another perspective, one person expressed confusion over Canelo Alvarez’s placement. Despite Alvarez being on the list, his inclusion seemed overshadowed. Perhaps due to the presentation or the surprising inclusions and exclusions that dominated the discussion.
Umm where's Canelo??
— Seja 💖 (@SejaUlterze) November 13, 2023
Lastly, another fan raised the case for Roy Jones Jr., another boxer whose remarkable career merits consideration.
Where is roy Jones Jr?
— 𝔍𝔞𝔠𝔨 𝔔𝔲𝔦𝔫𝔫 𝔎𝔦𝔫𝔤 (@jhette007) November 13, 2023
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Oscar De La Hoya’s list has done more than just highlight boxing legends; it has sparked a vibrant conversation about the sport’s rich history and its most influential figures. Through this discussion, we see the diverse perspectives and deep passion that boxing fans and experts hold for the sport and their favorite sports figures.
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Who do you believe belongs on the list of all-time great boxers? Do you agree with De La Hoya’s selections, or are there other fighters whose achievements and impact you feel have been overlooked by in the list?
Watch this story: Oscar De La Hoya Outlines the reason that make David Benavidez better than Canelo
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