UFC CEO, Dana White and Golden Boy boss Oscar De La Hoya are not known to be best of friends. As such, they often trade verbal shots at each other. Amidst their animosity, De La Hoya recently asserted to attend the UFC Noche event. In reference to that news, the UFC CEO has shared his bits.
In a recent ‘Clap Back Thursdays’ video, De La Hoya surprisingly praised Dana White and hinted at ending their rivalry. Interestingly, he also mentioned not attending Mexican boxing star Canelo Alvarez’s upcoming fight, and grace the UFC Noche event instead. Interestingly, when White learned of De La Hoya’s desire to attend UFC Noche, he firmly refused to provide tickets.
I don’t know where he’s getting his tickets from, but definitely ain’t getting it from me… It’s him trying to sh*t on Canelo
Dana White via Grind City Media
The UFC CEO seemed quite confused when he came across that buzz. As such, he believed that Saudi Delegate Turki Alalshikh must have invited Oscar De La Hoya. Interestingly, Alalshikh has given Dana White’s dream project a financial boost to make it a success. Even though White and De La Hoya don’t share a good bond, they might not be able to decline Alalshikh’s wish. The sole reason for this is his Excellency’s continuous efforts for the betterment of combat sports.
According to White, De La Hoya’s expression comes from his immense hatred towards Canelo Alvarez. The Golden Boy boss and Canelo have shared a bitter rivalry for a long time now. De La Hoya, in particular, has taken repetitive verbal shots at Alvarez, most recently for his upcoming matchup against Edgar Berlanga. Meanwhile, the UFC CEO has recently sung praises for the Mexican boxing sensation.
Interestingly, Alvarez may also be in the naughty books of Turki Alalshikh for refusing to fight David Benavidez for anything less than $200 million. As such, Alalshikh funding UFC Noche comes as no surprise. This could also be the reason for inviting De La Hoya to UFC Noche. However, Alashikh is still ready to work with Alvarez to set him up against Terence Crawford for a super fight.
Dana White acknowledges Canelo Alvarez’s stardom
Canelo Alvarez’s boxing career is not unknown to anyone. The Mexican boxing star’s pro boxing numbers are one of the reasons for the respect he gets in the community. UFC CEO Dana White, who is an avid combat sports enthusiast, has seen Canelo rising from a prospect to a legend now. Similarly, like everyone, White also couldn’t stop praising Alvarez even though they are rivals on September 14.
In a recent interview with MMA journalist John Morgan, Dana White discussed his upcoming UFC project. As such, he mentioned how it can break several records. White also emphasized the significance of UFC Noche as an event honoring Mexican fighters. In doing so, White also talked about Canelo’s impact as an inspiration for many budding Mexican fighters.
I’ve said it million times that I respect Canelo. I like Canelo… That night we’re talking about the history of Mexico and the history of the people and their traditions and the impact they’ve had on combat sports and somebody said to me, ‘So you’ll be celebrating Canelo that night.’ Yes, we are. Canelo is a big part of the night.
Dana White via Grind City Media
With just a few days left until the ultimate showdown, the preparations from both sides have been excellent. The UFC, in particular, recently shared test run images, raising anticipation for the event. Now, it will be intriguing to see which event outshines the other.
