KEY POINTS

  • Many are concerned about the state of health of Oscar De La Hoya after his commentary during the Paul vs. Askren fight
  • De La Hoya may have had extracurricular activities before doing commentary
  • De La Hoya has yet get an opponent for his planned ring return on July 3

Former boxing champion Oscar De La Hoya is planning a ring return after 14 years although it has yet to know who he will face.

However, there is now a growing concern about his health after seemingly being out of focus when he did some commentary during the Jake Paul vs. Ben Askren fight.

The 48-year-old was part of a live segment during the Paul vs. Askren build-up but appeared to be off sync.

The comments were made in just seconds, but it was clear that slurred and repeated some words on several occasions.

This did not escape the eyes of pundits, while others were a bit concerned about De La Hoya’s condition.

It is no secret that De La Hoya has had his share of dealing with alcohol and drug addiction in the past.

These were episodes that the former boxing champion had to deal with, including a point where he contemplated suicide.

De La Hoya’s comments led most to believe that he may be partying before and during the show.

It has yet to be known if these are the main reasons behind his lack of focus. If not, it could raise some concerns about his planned return on July 3.

It was in March when De La Hoya announced he had plans to return to boxing. It was a short and simple announcement, something he made in another prior build-up to the Askren vs. Paul showdown.

At the time, Triller CEO revealed that De La Hoya would be facing a big UFC personality. So far, no names have been dropped.

Oscar De La Hoya
Oscar De La Hoya, president of Golden Boy Promotions, gives a thumbs-up during an official weigh-in at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Sept. 14, 2012. Reuters/Steve Marcus

The case of De La Hoya calls to mind a similar situation that Mike Tyson was in last year.

In an interview with Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid, "Iron Mike" appeared tired and slurred words.

This show was held before the big fight that Tyson had with Roy Jones Jr. Concern was raised, but most already know by now how Tyson came out and gave boxing fans a show.

Boxing fans are hoping that the same case holds for De La Hoya who may also be tired.

While most await his opponent, others are no concerned about whether he can hold up and fight well against his mystery opponent on July 3.

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