De La Hoya, retired since 2008, recently revealed he’s been training for a while in a bid to face the UFC star, even predicting an early victory over McGregor.
During an appearance on Golden Boy radio, De La Hoya said: “You know I’m competitive. You know I still have it in me.
“I’ve been secretly training, secretly training. I’m faster than ever and stronger than ever.
“I know I could take out Conor McGregor in two rounds. I’ll come back for that fight. Two rounds,” he added.
With the potential bout sending shockwaves through boxing due to De La Hoya being 44 years old, odds crunchers have followed suit by backing the Golden Boy President to win.
Fractions of -140 in favor of the ten-time world champion against McGregor at even money see a slight lean towards De La Hoya, despite his last fight against Manny Pacquiao ending badly.
Pacquiao battered a labored De La Hoya into submission over eight rounds at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, ending a career spanning 16 years and six weight divisions.
McGregor is yet to comment on De La Hoya’s advances but has issued an apology for his behavior at a recent Bellator event.
‘The Notorious’ saw a scheduled fight scrapped as punishment for jumping into the octagon and engaging in a row with referee Marc Goddard.
“I sincerely apologize for my behavior at last weekends fight event in Dublin. While trying to support a loyal teammate and friend, I let my emotions get the best of me and acted out of line. As a multiple weight UFC champion, executive producer, role model and public figure, I must hold myself to a higher standard,” said McGregor.
“The referee Marc Godard was making a horrendous decision in trying to pick an unconscious fighter up off the floor and force the fight to continue into the second round. Even against the wishes of the said fighter’s coach. The fight was over.
“After witnessing my fighter in a fight where the worst happened and the opponent passed away from his injuries on the night, I thought the worst was about to happen again, and I lost it and overreacted. I am sorry to everyone.
“I sincerely apologize to the Director of the Mohegan Tribe Department of Athletic Regulation, Mike Mazzulli, all the officials and staff working the event, Andy Ryan and his fighter John, two stonch ones that put up a great fight every time. That side will always have my respect, and lastly every one of my fans. I love yous all!
“I’ve always learned from my mistakes and this will be no different.”
