The boxing world is abuzz with rumors of a potential showdown between Ryan Garcia and Conor Benn, but one key figure, Oscar De La Hoya, is not on board with this proposed fight. As the promoter and a prominent voice in the sport, De La Hoya's stance carries significant weight and raises intriguing questions about the future of these boxers and the boxing landscape.
The Fight That's Not Happening (Yet)
De La Hoya, in a recent statement, expressed his frustration over the ongoing speculation surrounding the Garcia-Benn bout. He emphasized that no formal discussions have taken place, despite announcements and plans for the fight to occur this fall. This has led to a wave of 'fake news' circulating, according to De La Hoya.
The promoter revealed that Garcia had signed a two-fight deal with the Saudis last year, with the first fight against Barrios. Interestingly, it seems the Saudis have chosen Benn as Garcia's next opponent, a decision that De La Hoya believes was influenced by Turki, who owns Zuffa and wants to support them.
A Promoter's Perspective
De La Hoya's commentary provides a unique insight into the business side of boxing. He highlights the importance of contracts and the legal framework that governs the sport, especially in the US. The promoter's role is not just about making matches; it's about navigating complex legal landscapes and ensuring that fighters' interests are protected.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the power dynamics at play. De La Hoya suggests that Turki and Sela are attempting to exert their influence, but they cannot simply call the shots without considering the established contracts and legal obligations. This raises a deeper question about the balance of power in boxing and the potential consequences of disregarding these legalities.
The Fans and the Fight
One thing that immediately stands out is De La Hoya's assertion that the fans are not interested in the Garcia-Benn fight. This is a bold claim, especially considering the potential draw of such a match-up. It suggests that De La Hoya believes the fans' preferences should guide the direction of the sport, a perspective that not all promoters may share.
In my opinion, this highlights a broader trend in sports promotion: the tension between what the fans want and what the promoters think the fans want. It's a delicate balance, and De La Hoya's stance here is a bold one, potentially putting him at odds with other stakeholders who may have different views on fan engagement.
A Web of Interests
The situation becomes even more complex when considering the involvement of various networks and organizations. De La Hoya mentions Paramount's interest in the Ryan Garcia fight, likely due to the success of regular Zuffa fights on their network. However, the presence of multiple networks and the legal battles they face add another layer of intrigue to this story.
What many people don't realize is that these legal battles are not just about money; they're about control and influence. The ability to dictate where fights are broadcast and who fights whom is a powerful tool, and the ongoing lawsuits highlight the fierce competition and strategic maneuvering behind the scenes.
A Peace Meeting and Its Exclusions
De La Hoya's commentary also sheds light on a recent 'peace meeting' initiated by Turki and Sela with Frank Warren and Eddie Hearn. Notably, De La Hoya, along with Al Haymon and Bob Arum, were left out of this meeting, despite their significant control over the US market. This exclusion is a strategic move, indicating a potential divide within the boxing community and raising questions about the future of collaboration and competition in the sport.
Conclusion
The proposed Ryan Garcia vs Conor Benn fight has sparked a fascinating debate, with De La Hoya's commentary offering a unique perspective on the business and legal intricacies of boxing. It's a reminder that behind the glitz and glamour of the sport, there's a complex web of interests, power dynamics, and legal battles that shape the fights we see and the careers of the athletes involved. As the story unfolds, it will be intriguing to see how these behind-the-scenes maneuvers impact the future of boxing and the careers of its stars.
