“Grow up, wake up”: De La Hoya’s message to Ryan Garcia

The relationship between Ryan Garcia and Oscar De La Hoya has reached one of its lowest points. In an interview with Ariel Helwani, the former world champion and Olympic gold medalist was direct and uncompromising with his fighter:

“Grow up. Shake it off. Grow up. Ryan needs to wake up.”

De La Hoya’s remarks came after a string of public clashes with the 27-year-old boxer, who has repeatedly lashed out at his promoter. The latest outburst came in June, when Garcia went on social media to attack Golden Boy Promotions, the company that represents him, after De La Hoya congratulated other fighters under his banner.

“There’s a line you shouldn’t cross”

The Mexican-American legend acknowledged that he understands Ryan Garcia’s mental health struggles but made it clear that patience has its limits:

“I understand the whole mental health thing. It’s serious, I know. But there’s a fine line between that… and just being an a**hole.”

Despite the tension, De La Hoya confirmed that the contract between both parties remains in effect and that Golden Boy Promotions continues to manage Garcia’s career. However, he admitted that they haven’t spoken directly in quite some time, with most communication happening through intermediaries.

A relationship full of ups and downs

Their connection dates back to when Ryan Garcia signed with Golden Boy at just 16 years old. But the rift began after his loss to Gervonta Davis two years ago — a breaking point that led to lawsuits, public insults, and escalating tension.

Before his fight with Devin Haney, things seemed to be improving between the two. However, the incidents in June reignited the feud: Garcia publicly shouted “F* Golden Boy Promotions**” and called De La Hoya a “b*h**,” claiming he’d been holding back for years.

Fed up with the constant attacks, De La Hoya fired back, suggesting that the boxer might be having “another episode.”

A relationship on the brink

Despite their ongoing differences, Oscar De La Hoya insists he’s not the enemy:

“I’m not your enemy. I’m your promoter. I gave you your career, your opponents, your victories. And you throw it all away and blame me?”

As Ryan Garcia tries to rebuild his career following suspensions and setbacks, his relationship with De La Hoya appears to be deteriorating beyond repair. It’s a story of talent, ego, and conflict — one of the most turbulent partnerships in modern boxing.