De La Hoya Backs Teofimo's Decision To Skip "Runner" Haney Fight

James

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Post on Jun 05, 2025

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De La Hoya Backs Teofimo's Decision to Skip "Runner" Haney Fight: A Smart Move or Missed Opportunity?

Oscar De La Hoya, the boxing legend and promoter, has publicly voiced his support for Teofimo Lopez's decision to bypass a fight with Devin Haney, referring to Haney's style as that of a "runner." This controversial statement has ignited a firestorm of debate within the boxing community, pitting those who laud Lopez's strategic choice against those who see it as a missed opportunity to secure a lucrative and prestigious title fight.

Lopez's Strategic Reasoning:

Lopez, the former unified lightweight champion, has been vocal about his desire for more exciting, action-packed fights. He views Haney's defensive style as less appealing to fans and potentially less lucrative in terms of pay-per-view buys. This perspective isn't entirely unfounded. Haney's fights, while technically impressive, often lack the explosive knockouts and thrilling exchanges that draw larger audiences. De La Hoya, echoing this sentiment, stated, "Teofimo wants action, and Haney's style just doesn't offer that." This highlights a growing rift in the boxing world between fighters prioritizing exciting bouts versus those focused on strategic, points-based victories.

Haney's Response and the "Runner" Label:

Haney, currently the undisputed lightweight champion, hasn't shied away from responding to the criticism. He's defended his tactical approach, pointing to his undefeated record and dominance in the ring. The "runner" label, he argues, is a dismissive attempt to downplay his skills and achievements. This labeling, however, has resonated with a segment of boxing fans who are craving more aggressive matchups. The debate underscores a fundamental disagreement about what constitutes "good" boxing – technical mastery versus crowd-pleasing aggression.

The Implications for Both Fighters' Careers:

Lopez's decision carries significant implications. Bypassing Haney, a lucrative fight with a high profile, means sacrificing a potential major payday and a chance to reclaim a championship belt. However, his decision could also be a calculated risk. By focusing on securing more action-oriented fights, he may build a stronger fanbase and ultimately pave the way for even bigger, more profitable bouts down the line. Haney, on the other hand, remains at the top of the lightweight division, but the controversy surrounding his style could potentially impact his future marketability.

De La Hoya's Influence and the Future of Boxing:

De La Hoya's endorsement of Lopez's decision carries considerable weight. As a former champion and prominent promoter, his opinion holds sway over many in the boxing world. His backing underscores a growing desire among fans and some promoters for a shift towards more aggressive and fan-friendly boxing matches. This debate raises important questions about the future direction of the sport – will technical skill always trump crowd-pleasing action?

Looking Ahead:

The conflict between Lopez and Haney, fueled by De La Hoya's comments, serves as a microcosm of a larger debate within professional boxing. It highlights the tension between strategic gameplay and the desire for exciting, knockout-filled fights that capture the public's imagination. The coming months will be crucial in seeing how both fighters' careers unfold and whether De La Hoya's support of Lopez’s strategy ultimately proves prescient. Only time will tell if this decision was a masterstroke or a missed opportunity.

Keywords: Teofimo Lopez, Devin Haney, Oscar De La Hoya, boxing, lightweight champion, boxing strategy, runner, boxing match, boxing news, pay-per-view, undisputed champion.