BREAKING NEWS!!! Oscar De La Hoya BEGS Mario Barrios: “Don’t Fight Pacquiao!”

In a bombshell development that’s shaking up the boxing world, Oscar De La Hoya has publicly pleaded with Mario Barrios to reconsider his rumored blockbuster showdown with Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. The Golden Boy himself, a former rival of Pacquiao and now a powerful boxing promoter, stunned fans and insiders alike with his dramatic and emotional appeal:
“Don’t fight Pacquiao!”

De La Hoya’s words aren’t just a cautionary note — they’re a stark warning, born from personal experience, deep industry insight, and perhaps a desire to protect the future of one of boxing’s rising American stars. As speculation swirls about Pacquiao’s return fight in 2025, De La Hoya’s comments have set off a firestorm of debate.

So why is Oscar De La Hoya, one of boxing’s most influential figures, so desperate to stop this fight from happening?

Let’s break it down.

The Fight That’s Shaking the Sport: Pacquiao vs. Barrios in the Works

Whispers of a Manny Pacquiao vs. Mario Barrios fight have grown louder in recent weeks. At 46 years old, Pacquiao is eyeing another comeback, determined to go out on his terms with one last marquee bout. And Mario Barrios, fresh off claiming the WBC interim welterweight title, is reportedly the frontrunner for the assignment.

Barrios is fast, tough, and hungry. But he’s also 12 years younger than Pacquiao, making this a potentially high-risk, high-reward clash for both.

For Pacquiao, it’s another chance to prove that age is just a number. For Barrios, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime — a chance to defeat a legend and skyrocket his star power overnight.

But Oscar De La Hoya isn’t impressed. He’s terrified.

De La Hoya’s Warning: “I Know What It’s Like to Face Pacquiao”

Let’s not forget: Oscar De La Hoya knows exactly what it’s like to fight Manny Pacquiao. Their 2008 bout was supposed to be a farewell tour for De La Hoya — instead, it became one of the most lopsided beatdowns in modern boxing history.

De La Hoya, weakened by a drop in weight and stunned by Pacquiao’s relentless speed, quit on his stool after the eighth round. That loss was so devastating, he never fought again.

So when Oscar says, “Don’t fight Pacquiao,” it comes from personal trauma.

“I fought him thinking I was bigger, stronger, and more experienced. I was wrong,” De La Hoya said in a recent interview.
“Pacquiao doesn’t age like normal fighters. He destroys people. I know. He ended my career.”

De La Hoya’s emotions are raw. His message to Barrios?
“It’s not just a fight. It’s a war. You’re not ready for that yet.”

Barrios on the Rise: The Star in the Making

At 29, Mario Barrios is on the cusp of stardom. His recent win over Yordenis Ugas to claim the WBC interim title was a turning point. He boxed smart, showed heart, and proved that he belongs among the elite at 147 pounds.

His record stands at 29-2 with 18 knockouts — a solid resume, but still missing that one marquee name.

Pacquiao would be that name.

Barrios has yet to respond directly to De La Hoya’s warning, but insiders suggest the Texan is excited by the idea of facing Pacquiao. The payday. The prestige. The possibility of adding a living legend’s name to his record.

But the concern isn’t just about money — it’s about career trajectory.

Oscar’s Deeper Concern: Is This a Trap Fight?

To De La Hoya, this isn’t just a fight — it’s a trap.

“Everyone thinks because Manny is older, slower, maybe not as active, that he’s easy money,” Oscar explained.
“But ask Thurman. Ask Bradley. Ask me. You don’t fight Pacquiao unless you’re absolutely sure you’re ready for hell.”

De La Hoya fears that a loss to Pacquiao — especially a brutal one — could set Barrios back years. In his view, Barrios should be building momentum, fighting younger contenders, and lining himself up for a future shot at a full world title, not risking everything for a dangerous nostalgia bout.

Moreover, Pacquiao’s awkward style, insane angles, and relentless tempo still make him one of the trickiest assignments in boxing, even at 46.

Why Pacquiao Wants This Fight

From Pacquiao’s side, the logic is clear. He’s choosing an opponent with credibility but not invincibility. Barrios is young but not a power puncher. He’s respected but not elite. For Pacquiao, Barrios offers a chance to win and remind the world of his greatness without facing a current pound-for-pound monster.

And let’s be real: Pacquiao is still a pay-per-view juggernaut.

If this fight happens — likely in Las Vegas or possibly Saudi Arabia — it would generate millions and dominate headlines. Pacquiao knows that even in 2025, his name still carries more weight than most champions today.

Boxing World Reacts: Support and Skepticism

De La Hoya’s public plea has divided the boxing community.

Some insiders agree, urging Barrios to think long-term.

“Oscar’s right. Barrios has talent, but he should be gunning for Spence or Crawford when they’re done, not risking it all against Pacquiao,” said one unnamed trainer.

Others believe De La Hoya’s motives are personal, perhaps protecting his promotional territory or even still haunted by his own demons from that 2008 fight.

Fans, meanwhile, are thrilled by the possibility. A Pacquiao-Barrios bout would be a blend of experience and youth, nostalgia and future.

And let’s be honest — nobody brings drama quite like Manny Pacquiao.

Barrios’ Team Faces a Crossroads

At the center of this storm is Mario Barrios and his team. Do they take the fight and gamble everything for legacy? Or do they heed Oscar’s advice and take the slow, smart path to a title unification?

It’s not an easy decision.

Money. Fame. Risk. Injury. Opportunity. Legacy.

It’s all on the table.

Barrios’ camp is expected to make an official announcement in the coming weeks. If they greenlight the Pacquiao bout, training could begin as early as August for a potential fall 2025 showdown.

What’s at Stake for Boxing?

If this fight happens — and it’s looking more likely every day — it would mark one of the most high-profile comeback events of the year.

• For Pacquiao: A win would restore his aura and potentially set up another mega-fight (perhaps against Conor Benn or even a rematch with Thurman).

• For Barrios: A win makes him a star overnight. A loss? It could derail his title momentum and damage his confidence.

And for fans? It’s the perfect recipe — youth vs. legend, speed vs. speed, with a dash of unpredictability.

But the warning still echoes loudly from Oscar De La Hoya:
“Don’t fight Pacquiao.”

Conclusion: One Fight, Two Legacies

Oscar De La Hoya’s plea to Mario Barrios is as dramatic as it is heartfelt. Whether driven by wisdom, fear, or unresolved trauma, it underscores the weight of what’s at stake.

Barrios is hungry. Pacquiao is proud. The boxing world is ready.

Now, the choice belongs to Barrios. Will he heed the Golden Boy’s warning — or embrace the challenge that could define his entire career?

One thing is certain: if this fight happens, the world will be watching.