De La Hoya: Teofimo Lopez Wise To Avoid A Fight With "Running" Haney

James

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Post on Jun 05, 2025

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De La Hoya: Teófimo López Wise to Avoid a Fight with "Running" Haney

Oscar De La Hoya believes Teófimo López made a smart decision in steering clear of a potential clash with Devin Haney, labeling the lightweight champion a "runner." The boxing legend's comments follow mounting speculation about a highly anticipated showdown between the two undefeated fighters, a fight that has yet to materialize.

De La Hoya, a former world champion himself and now a prominent boxing promoter, took to social media to express his opinion. He didn't pull any punches, stating that Haney's fighting style wouldn't provide the explosive, action-packed fight fans crave. "Teófimo is smart to avoid Haney," De La Hoya tweeted. "Haney is a runner, and that style doesn't sell. Fans want action, and Haney doesn't deliver."

This statement adds fuel to the already simmering debate surrounding Haney's fighting style. While undeniably skilled and undefeated, Haney has been criticized by some for a more defensive, counter-punching approach, which some perceive as lacking in aggression. This criticism is not unique to De La Hoya; several boxing analysts have echoed similar sentiments.

<h3>Haney's Defensive Strategy: A Calculated Risk or a Lack of Aggression?</h3>

Haney's defensive prowess is undeniable. His ability to slip punches and maintain distance has been instrumental in his undefeated record. However, this approach has also led to criticism. Many believe that his preference for points over knockouts detracts from the excitement of the fights.

• Maintaining an Undefeated Record: Haney's primary focus appears to be maintaining his undefeated status. This strategy, while effective, may not appeal to all boxing fans.
• Risk vs. Reward: A more aggressive fighting style inherently carries a higher risk of defeat. Haney's calculated approach minimizes this risk, prioritizing preserving his record.
• The Business of Boxing: Ultimately, the fight game is a business. A more cautious approach might secure more lucrative fights in the long run, even if it means sacrificing some fan appeal in the short term.

<h3>López's Strategic Choices: A Calculated Move</h3>

López, known for his aggressive and explosive style, presents a stark contrast to Haney. A fight between the two would have been a clash of styles, a potential "fire vs. ice" matchup. De La Hoya's comments suggest López is prioritizing fights that will deliver high-octane action and garner significant fan interest. This strategic approach could prove more lucrative in the long run. He's clearly aiming for fights that will generate buzz and solidify his legacy as a fan favorite.

While a Haney-Lopez fight remains a possibility in the future, De La Hoya's comments highlight the ongoing discussion about the balance between skillful defense and crowd-pleasing aggression in professional boxing. The future will tell if Haney can adapt to meet fan expectations, or if his defensive style will continue to be a point of contention. Only time will tell if this highly anticipated fight ever takes place.

What are your thoughts on Haney's fighting style? Let us know in the comments below!