Oscar De La Hoya has turned heads with a bold statement about two boxing greats. The former world champion and current promoter claims Manny Pacquiao would knock out Terence Crawford if they fought in their prime years.
De La Hoya shared this opinion during a quick-fire 'Knockout' round with Mail Sport Boxing. When asked who'd win between a prime Pacquiao and Crawford, he didn't hesitate.
"Oh at their prime? Yeah [Manny] Pacquiao, knockout."
This statement comes as a surprise, given Crawford's impressive career. The 37-year-old from Omaha, Nebraska, hasn't lost in 41 professional fights. He's won world titles in four weight classes and made history as the first fighter in the 'four belt' era to become undisputed champion in two weight classes - super-lightweight and welterweight.
Crawford's not slowing down either. He's set to face Canelo Alvarez for the Unified Super Middleweight title on September 13 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao, known as "PacMan", has an equally impressive resume. At 46, he's the only eight-division world champion in boxing history. He's beaten some of the best, including De La Hoya himself, Shane Mosley, Juan Manuel Marquez, and Miguel Cotto.
The Filipino fighter recently returned to the ring after a four-year break. He fought to a majority decision draw against WBC world welterweight champion Mario Barrios in Las Vegas. Despite his age, Pacquiao plans to keep fighting. There's talk he might face Rolando 'Rolly' Romero or Gervonta Davis next.
De La Hoya's statement has sparked debate among boxing fans. It's a tough call between two great fighters from different eras. While we'll never see this dream match-up in reality, it's fun to imagine how it might have played out.
