The 40 year-old multi-weight champion has been an integral part of the preparations for this weekends blockbuster between his favoured fighter Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and ‘Money’ Mayweather, but admits that he needs a time out as the PPV extravaganza draws near.
“I will not be at the fight this Saturday to cheer Canelo to victory since I have voluntarily admitted myself into a treatment facility,” De La Hoya said in a statement.
“I explained this to Canelo and he understood that my health and long-term recovery from my disease must come first. Thank you for your understanding. I ask for your support and privacy during this difficult time for me and my family.”
In the past, De La Hoya has struggled with addiction to alcohol and cocaine, although the full details have not been released at this time and the focus should now turn to this weekend’s unified light-middleweight title match-up.
Floyd Mayweather v Saul Alvarez (WBC and WBA light-middleweight titles), backed up by Danny Garcia v Lucas Mattysse (WBC and WBA light-welterweight titles) is live on BoxNation in the UK. To subscribe click on any BoxNation link or banner on the WBN website.
