As anticipation builds for Manny Pacquiao’s return to the ring, memories of his past triumphs continue to resurface—none more notable than his 2008 dismantling of Oscar De La Hoya, a bout that not only ended the Hall of Famer’s career but also elevated Pacquiao to superstardom.
More than fifteen years after that pivotal night, De La Hoya is reflecting on the moment that changed the course of his legacy. As the boxing world turns its attention to Pacquiao’s upcoming fight against Mario Barrios on July 19 in Las Vegas, De La Hoya has offered a blunt, four-word summary of what it felt like to trade punches with the Filipino legend.
“It didn’t do anything.” That’s how De La Hoya described Pacquiao’s punches in a recent conversation—an admission that speaks volumes, not necessarily about power, but about the methodical destruction Pacquiao once delivered.
De La Hoya breaks down Pacquiao’s fighting style
Speaking on the Combat Podcast, De La Hoya clarified that while Pacquiao’s blows lacked knockout force, it was the relentless pace and precision that overwhelmed him. “It’s funny, because I didn’t feel Pacquiao’s punch, it didn’t do anything to me. Maybe it’s because Pacquiao was coming up in weight,” he explained. “I believe that was his first fight at welterweight, so I didn’t really feel his punch. With him it was more of an accumulation.”
Filipino icon Manny Pacquiao celebrates his 12 round TKO victory against Miguel Cotto during their WBO welterweight title fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on November 14, 2009. (Al Bello/Getty Images)
While the former champion’s tone remains respectful, his reflections provide insight into how elite fighters perceive damage not just through brute force, but sustained tactical pressure.
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A word of caution for Pacquiao’s comeback
With Pacquiao now set to face WBC welterweight titleholder Mario Barrios, De La Hoya offered advice rooted in both experience and concern. Speaking to Seconds Out, the Golden Boy issued a warning: “I wish him all the best. Obviously the truth is the truth, he’s obviously not the same Pacquiao that fought me, that fought the greats.”
The age gap between Pacquiao, now 46, and the 29-year-old Barrios is hard to ignore. De La Hoya added, “Be careful up there, he’s not young like he used to be, but I’m sure he still has that power so anything can happen.” It’s a reminder that boxing, especially at the highest levels, is an unforgiving sport, where legacy and risk are constantly at odds.
What’s next if Pacquiao wins?
Should Pacquiao defy the odds and overcome Barrios, he already has his eyes set on another challenge. Although no official names have been confirmed, speculation around a high-profile matchup is gaining momentum.
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Whether his return is the beginning of a farewell tour or a genuine bid for another world title, one thing remains certain: Pacquiao’s presence still captivates. And for those who’ve faced him, like De La Hoya, the memory of his whirlwind offense lives on—even if the punches, in Oscar’s words, “didn’t do anything.”
