The Canadian Encyclopedia — neutral, cited, updated
July 27, 2026Sources cited
Canadianwire.
Canada’s encyclopedia & explainer
HomeSportsBoxingOscar De La Hoya
Sports • Boxing

Oscar De La Hoya

Oscar De La Hoya is a Mexican-American former professional boxer and boxing promoter.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Oscar De La Hoya is a Mexican-American former professional boxer and boxing promoter. Nicknamed "The Golden Boy," he won an Olympic gold medal in 1992 and multiple world titles across six weight classes before retiring in 2009. He later founded Golden Boy Promotions, one of boxing’s major promotional companies.

Early life and amateur career

De La Hoya was born in Montebello, California, in 1973 and came from a family with boxing ties. He built a highly successful amateur career before winning lightweight gold at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona.

Professional boxing career

After turning professional in 1992, De La Hoya won world titles in six weight divisions and became one of the most popular and highest-paid boxers of his era. He retired in 2009 with a professional record of 39 wins, 6 losses, and 30 knockouts.

Promotional work

In 2002, De La Hoya founded Golden Boy Promotions, which became a prominent boxing promotional firm. He is known for helping promote major fights after his in-ring career.

Legacy and recognition

De La Hoya is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of his generation. His Olympic success, championship record, and commercial impact made him a major figure in the sport. He was inducted into the Team USA Olympic Hall of Fame in 2008.

Key facts

  • Won lightweight gold at the 1992 Summer Olympics.
  • Captured world titles in six different weight classes.
  • Retired from professional boxing in 2009.
  • Founded Golden Boy Promotions in 2002.
  • Was inducted into the Team USA Olympic Hall of Fame in 2008.
🍁
Canadian context

De La Hoya has been a major figure in North American boxing, with fights and promotions that have been followed by Canadian boxing fans and media.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Oscar De La Hoya?
Oscar De La Hoya is a Mexican-American former professional boxer and promoter, best known for winning an Olympic gold medal and multiple world championships.
What is Oscar De La Hoya’s nickname?
His nickname is "The Golden Boy."
How many world titles did he win?
He won 10 world titles in six weight classes, according to major biographical sources.
When did he retire from boxing?
He retired in 2009 after a professional career that ended with a 39–6 record.
What is Golden Boy Promotions?
Golden Boy Promotions is the boxing promotional company De La Hoya founded in 2002.

References

  1. Biography.comhttps://www.biography.com/athletes/oscar-de-la-hoya
    Supports: Birth year, Olympic gold, world titles, retirement, and Golden Boy Promotions.
  2. Olympics.comhttps://www.olympics.com/en/athletes/oscar-de-la-hoya
    Supports: 1992 Olympic gold medal, later world titles, retirement context, and promotional activities.
  3. International Boxing Hall of Famehttp://www.ibhof.com/pages/about/inductees/modern/delahoya.html
    Supports: Birthplace, amateur record, Olympic gold, professional titles, retirement record, and Golden Boy Promotions.
  4. Britannica Kidshttps://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/Oscar-De-La-Hoya/633329
    Supports: Birth date, Olympic gold, world titles, retirement, and final professional record.