Challenges in the Life of Oscar De La Hoya in a Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 29, 2025

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Oscar De La Hoya's life and career.

Oscar De La Hoya, nicknamed "The Golden Boy of Boxing", is an American boxing promoter and former professional boxer. He competed from 1992 to 2008, achieving significant success by winning 11 world titles across six weight classes, including lineal championships in three. Representing the United States, he won a gold medal in the lightweight division at the 1992 Summer Olympics shortly after graduating high school. He is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time, ranked 16th by BoxRec.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

December 9, 1993: Fight Pulled Due to Wrist Injury

On December 9, 1993, Oscar De La Hoya was scheduled to fight Jesús Vidal Concepción but pulled out due to a wrist injury, leading to speculation about the severity of the injury.

September 18, 1999: Fight against Félix Trinidad

On September 18, 1999, Oscar De La Hoya fought Félix Trinidad, losing by majority decision in a controversial fight that generated much discussion and debate.

1999: Wrist Injury Origin

In 1999, Oscar De La Hoya incurred a wrist injury in the first round of his fight against Oba Carr, which continued to bother him in subsequent fights.

June 17, 2000: Loss to Shane Mosley

On June 17, 2000, Oscar De La Hoya lost his WBC welterweight title to Shane Mosley by a split decision, marking a setback in his career.

2000: Lawsuit Against Bob Arum

In 2000, Oscar De La Hoya sued Bob Arum to break his contract with the promoter, leading to a legal battle.

November 8, 2001: Fight Cancellation due to Injury

On November 8, 2001, the fight with Roman Karmazin was cancelled due to Oscar De La Hoya suffering from a torn cartilage in his left wrist, an old injury that was aggravated during sparring.

May 2002: Withdrawal from Fight with Fernando Vargas

In May 2002, Oscar De La Hoya had to withdraw from a scheduled fight against Fernando Vargas due to a hand injury, prolonging their rivalry.

August 2011: De La Hoya Confirms Authenticity of Photos

During an August 2011 interview with Univision, Oscar De La Hoya confirmed that he was indeed in the leaked 2007 cross-dressing photos, attributing it to poor judgment due to his first use of cocaine.

September 2013: Return to Drug and Alcohol Treatment

In September 2013, just before the Golden Boy promoted match of Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Canelo Álvarez, Oscar De La Hoya announced he was returning to a drug and alcohol treatment facility.

January 2017: Arrested for DUI

In January 2017, Oscar De La Hoya was arrested in Pasadena, California for driving under the influence of alcohol. He pled not guilty, and the charges were dismissed in 2018.