Neither Canelo nor Pacquiao: Floyd Mayweather revealed his most hated opponents in his boxing career

Mayweather had an incredibly successful professional career, during which he faced many top names, including Canelo Álvarez, Conor McGregor, Manny Pacquiao, and Ricky Hatton, among others. However, none of them are the one he despises the most.

In a recent interview, Mayweather didn’t hesitate to name Oscar De La Hoya as the opponent he hates the most out of everyone he ever faced in the ring.

Mayweather was also asked about which victory was the most satisfying of his career. He pointed to his December 2007 win against Ricky Hatton, as well as his May 2, 2015 win over Manny Pacquiao.

The Mayweather–De La Hoya rivalry

Mayweather and De La Hoya fought for the WBC super welterweight title on May 5, 2007, in Las Vegas, Nevada. At the time, De La Hoya, a six-division world champion, was nearing the end of his career and hoping to cement his legacy with a win. Mayweather ultimately won the fight by split decision.

The bout wasn’t without controversy, as many believed Mayweather’s superior defense and counter-punching skills earned him the edge. The fight also became one of the highest-grossing boxing events in history.

The rivalry between the two extended beyond the ring. Leading up to the fight, there was speculation that Mayweather’s father might train De La Hoya. Although that betrayal never happened, tensions remained high.

Today, both men run their own promotional companies — Golden Boy Promotions for De La Hoya and Mayweather Promotions for Floyd — keeping the competition alive outside the ropes.

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