De La Hoya signed the young Mexican fighter to Golden Boy Promotions in 2010. Under his guidance, Canelo quickly rose to stardom, winning world titles across multiple weight divisions and becoming a global boxing icon.
In the interview, De La Hoya recalled his conversation with a 21-year-old Canelo:
"Do not fight Floyd [Mayweather], because you're too young, you have no experience."
But Canelo, eager to prove himself, didn't listen. De La Hoya said the young fighter "was flexing his muscles saying he could take on the very best."
The fight went ahead at a catchweight of 152lbs. Mayweather, then 36, had just beaten Miguel Cotto and Robert Guerrero. The result? A schooling, according to De La Hoya.
"He got schooled. It wasn't even close."
Mayweather won by majority decision, handing Canelo his first loss.
Despite this setback, Canelo's career flourished. He's now fought 65 times, losing only once more to Dmitry Bivol at light-heavyweight in 2022.
The relationship between fighter and promoter soured over time. In 2020, Canelo sued Golden Boy Promotions and DAZN, claiming breach of contract. He won his freedom and became a free agent.
Canelo's next fight is set for September 14. He'll defend his three super middleweight world titles against Edgar Berlanga, live on DAZN. Fans are also calling for a showdown with David Benavidez in the future.