Oscar De La Hoya Praises Teofimo Lopez For Bypassing "Runner" Haney

James

3 min read

Post on Jun 05, 2025

4.8

Share

Oscar De La Hoya Slams Devin Haney, Lauds Teofimo Lopez's Bold Move

Boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya has come out swinging, praising Teofimo Lopez's decision to bypass undisputed lightweight champion Devin Haney and instead target Vasiliy Lomachenko. De La Hoya, known for his outspoken nature and sharp boxing acumen, didn't mince words when criticizing Haney's perceived lack of fighting spirit. He labeled Haney a "runner," a tactic De La Hoya believes actively avoids challenging opponents.

This bold statement follows Lopez's announcement of his upcoming fight against Lomachenko, a clash of titans promising fireworks in the ring. The fight, scheduled for [Insert Date and Venue if available], will be a crucial test for both fighters and a highly anticipated event for boxing fans worldwide.

De La Hoya's Scathing Critique of Devin Haney

In a recent interview, De La Hoya didn't pull any punches, directly criticizing Haney's fighting style. He stated, "[Insert direct quote from De La Hoya if available, otherwise paraphrase his criticism, emphasizing the "runner" label and its implications for boxing fans.]" This assessment reflects a growing sentiment among some boxing pundits who believe Haney prioritizes preserving his undefeated record over engaging in truly exciting and competitive bouts.

This isn't the first time Haney's fighting style has been questioned. Many critics point to his previous fights as evidence of his preference for a more defensive, counter-punching strategy, sometimes perceived as avoiding significant exchanges. This approach, while effective in securing victories, has drawn considerable criticism for its perceived lack of action and excitement.

Teofimo Lopez: A Fighter's Fighter?

De La Hoya's praise of Lopez is a stark contrast to his assessment of Haney. He sees Lopez as a fighter who embraces challenges and actively seeks out the toughest opponents. The decision to face Lomachenko, a former unified lightweight champion and arguably one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters of his generation, underscores this perception.

"Teofimo is a true warrior," De La Hoya reportedly said. "[Insert another relevant quote or paraphrase if available, emphasizing Lopez's courage and fighting spirit.]" This statement highlights the contrasting styles and approaches of the two fighters and the different values they represent within the boxing world. Lopez's willingness to face Lomachenko positions him as a fighter willing to risk everything for a chance at glory.

Lomachenko vs. Lopez: A Fight for the Ages?

The upcoming Lomachenko-Lopez fight promises a thrilling spectacle. Both fighters possess exceptional skill and power, guaranteeing a fight filled with technical brilliance and potential knockouts. The fight holds significant implications for the lightweight division, with the winner potentially cementing their place among the elite. This contest has the potential to be a classic, a fight that boxing fans will remember for years to come.

What's Next for Haney?

With Lopez choosing to bypass Haney, the undisputed lightweight champion's future opponents remain uncertain. While he holds all the belts, the question remains: will he continue to face criticism for his perceived lack of challenging opponents? Only time will tell if Haney will respond to De La Hoya's comments and actively seek more exciting matchups in the future.

Conclusion:

Oscar De La Hoya's comments have ignited a firestorm of debate within the boxing community. His stark contrast between Teofimo Lopez and Devin Haney highlights a broader conversation surrounding fighting styles and the pursuit of exciting matchups. The upcoming Lomachenko-Lopez fight will undoubtedly be a focal point, and its outcome could significantly shape the future of the lightweight division. Will Haney prove De La Hoya wrong? Only the future will tell. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.