America's most popular pugilist -- boxing's "Golden Boy" -- announced his decision on Tuesday across the street from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, where a statue of him stands.
De La Hoya is retiring four months after he was thoroughly beaten by Manny Pacquiao in his fourth loss in his last seven fights. It's been several years since De La Hoya beat a truly daunting opponent. He finishes with a record of 39-6 and 30 knockouts.
He told an outdoor audience that he's retiring because it's not fair to himself or the fans to continue when he can't compete at the highest level anymore.
"Boxing is my passion," De La Hoya said. "When I can't compete at the highest level, it's not fair. It's not fair to me. It's not fair to the fans. I've come to the conclusion that it's over inside the ring for me. My decision was based on a lot. Now, I understand why athletes have such a tough time retiring from something that you feel so passionate about."
The East L.A. native said he will stay involved in the sport as a promoter with his Golden Boy Promotions company.
De La Hoya is retiring four months after he was thoroughly beaten by Manny Pacquiao in his fourth loss in his last seven fights. It's been several years since De La Hoya beat a truly daunting opponent. He finishes with a record of 39-6 and 30 knockouts.
He told an outdoor audience that he's retiring because it's not fair to himself or the fans to continue when he can't compete at the highest level anymore.
"Boxing is my passion," De La Hoya said. "When I can't compete at the highest level, it's not fair. It's not fair to me. It's not fair to the fans. I've come to the conclusion that it's over inside the ring for me. My decision was based on a lot. Now, I understand why athletes have such a tough time retiring from something that you feel so passionate about."
The East L.A. native said he will stay involved in the sport as a promoter with his Golden Boy Promotions company.
