Dana White Addresses Oscar De La Hoya’s Setup Claims at the Garcia-Benn Fight
UFC president Dana White has publicly responded to remarks made by boxing promoter Oscar De La Hoya concerning the recent fight between Ryan Garcia and Conor Benn. De La Hoya expressed concerns about being “set up” during the event, leading to speculation about the underlying dynamics between the two prominent figures in combat sports.
De La Hoya’s Decision to Avoid the Fight
Oscar De La Hoya revealed that he chose to forgo attending the highly anticipated matchup to prevent facing potential embarrassment from Dana White and Zuffa Boxing. His apprehension has raised questions about their professional relationship and whether it could impact fighters like Garcia, who is currently under contract.
White’s Rebuttal of the Setup Allegations
Responding to De La Hoya’s assertions, White refuted the claims regarding any malevolent intentions, emphasizing that there was no plot to undermine the boxing promoter. “Oscar’s concerns are unfounded,” stated White, who also reflected on a past experience with wrestling magnate Vince McMahon, suggesting he had his own encounters where he felt ensnared.
The Future of Ryan Garcia
The ongoing discussion around Ryan Garcia’s career path also surfaced, with De La Hoya expressing doubts that Garcia would find a suitable fit with White and the UFC. With Garcia’s current promotional agreement nearing its expiration, both figures are keen on assessing the fighter’s next steps.
Conclusion
The exchange between Dana White and Oscar De La Hoya highlights the often tumultuous relationship between boxing and mixed martial arts promotions. As the sports evolve, the implications for fighters and promoters alike remain significant.
Key Takeaways:
- Dana White refutes Oscar De La Hoya’s claims of being “set up” during the Garcia-Benn fight.
- De La Hoya chose not to attend the fight due to concerns of embarrassment.
- White invokes his history with Vince McMahon to illustrate his perspective.
- The future of Ryan Garcia is uncertain as his current deal approaches its conclusion.
