Contrary to the claims of retired American boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. that racism exists in the sport, Golden Boy Promotions top brass Oscar De La Hoya begs to differ.
Mayweather put on quite a stir recently when he criticized yet again Ring Magazine for their pound-for pound listing.
Andre Ward was ranked No. 4 by Ring Magazine, but for Mayweather, the 32-year-old undefeated boxer should be at least ranked second on the list.
"Even though the guy that's ranked No.1 pound-for-pound right now [Roman "Chocolatito" Gonzalez], you know, you can't argue about that, but without Andre Ward losing a fight, he has to be No. 2. ... I mean, he wins his fights not in good fashion, but in great fashion, and they have him at No. 4?” says Mayweather via Fighthype.com.
This was where the issue of racism was inserted. He cites the case of Gennady Golovkin who many don’t badmouth, as well as Ronda Rousey, who Mayweather says received more attention than Laila Ali.
Not to be forgotten is Conor McGregor. Mayweather singles out that when he shows off his arrogance and cockiness, people criticize him but when “The Notorious” does it, he gets away with it.
It would only be a matter of time before De La Hoya would respond to the alleged “racism exists” allegations by Mayweather, and here is what he had to say via ESPN Deportes:
“There is no racism in boxing at all. If you're a champion or not a champion, people love you or they won't, period,” says De La Hoya.
From there, it seems De La Hoya took a swipe at Mayweather in the process.
“Look, if you're going to run and not provide the people with a show, you are not going to be wanted. But if you're going to knock people out and give the people a show, the people will worship you, and racism has nothing to do with it.”
Both boxers have had a hot and cold relationship through the years. When it comes to debate and controversy, however, the two have been known to go at it.
Ring Magazine, owned by De La Hoya, has not been spared from potshots by Mayweather.
Back in November, Mayweather took a swipe when the publication featured Ronda Rousey on the cover, saying it makes boxing look bad via Yahoo Sports.
What seems to be interesting right now is if Mayweather would jab back at De La Hoya. Everyone knows how the two love to jaw at each other, and normally, the flamboyant one is not shy to respond.