Is it possible for a man to be both a champion in the ring and a master of controversy outside it? For Oscar De La Hoya, the answer seems to be a resounding, and complicated, yes.
The Golden Boy, as he was affectionately known, has carved a dual legacy. He is celebrated as a boxing icon, a former Olympic gold medalist, and a multi-weight world champion. Yet, his personal life has been punctuated by dramatic twists, public separations, and the ever-present glare of the media. From the heights of the ring to the depths of personal turmoil, De La Hoya's story is a compelling study in contrasts, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of the spotlight.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | scar de la Hoya |
| Born | February 4, 1973 |
| Birthplace | East Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Boxing Promoter, Former Professional Boxer |
| Nickname | The Golden Boy |
| Boxing Record | 39-6 (30 KOs) |
| Stance | Southpaw |
| Years Active | 1992-2008 |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Millie Corretjer), Dating (Holly Sonders) |
| Children | 6 (Details of each child available in sources) |
| Major Titles | 11 World Titles in 6 Different Weight Classes |
| Other Achievements | Olympic Gold Medal (1992) |
| Notable Fights | vs. Julio Csar Chvez, vs. Flix Trinidad, vs. Floyd Mayweather Jr., vs. Manny Pacquiao |
| Current Status | Boxing Promoter, focused on Golden Boy Promotions |
| Reference Website | BoxingScene.com - Oscar De La Hoya |
De La Hoya's journey began in East Los Angeles, where boxing became his escape and his destiny. He honed his skills, driven by a desire to succeed and a natural aptitude for the sport. The 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona marked his breakthrough. He clinched a gold medal, launching his professional career with the resounding nickname "The Golden Boy". This moniker, reflecting his golden hair and winning personality, stuck with him throughout his career and continues to define his public image.
Turning professional in 1992, De La Hoya quickly ascended the ranks. His combination of skill, speed, and showmanship made him a marketable star. He won his first world title in 1994, capturing the WBO super featherweight title. Over the next decade, he would add titles in five more weight divisions, cementing his place in boxing history. The fighter's versatility and willingness to take on challenges, from the legendary Julio Csar Chvez to the rising star Flix Trinidad, showcased his ambition and competitive spirit.
The ring was often the stage for some of the sport's most memorable moments. In 1995, his achievements were recognized when he was named the Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year. Fights against names like "Sugar" Shane Mosley and Floyd Mayweather Jr. became pay-per-view blockbusters, drawing millions of viewers and cementing De La Hoya's status as a major draw.
Yet, even as his boxing career flourished, the seeds of personal complexity were sown. De La Hoya's charisma, undeniable talent, and willingness to engage with the media made him a target for the tabloids. His personal life became a subject of public scrutiny, leading to a complex and at times, tumultuous personal life. These challenges have mirrored the ups and downs of his boxing career.
The year 2000 marked a turning point for De La Hoya. He met Millie Corretjer, a Puerto Rican singer and actress, when he invited her to appear in one of his music videos. Their connection deepened, and they married on October 5, 2001, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Their relationship produced three children: Oscar Gabriel de la Hoya Corretjer, born December 29, 2005; Nina Lauren Ninette de la Hoya Corretjer, born December 29, 2007; and another child whose name and date of birth can be found in more detailed biographical sources. Their marriage, which started with such promise, eventually faced challenges. The couple separated in 2016, and the divorce was finalized in 2023, as reported by TMZ Sports.
De La Hoya's foray into music reflects his desire to explore other avenues and express his creativity. While he found success in boxing, his ventures into music, while not as dominant as his boxing career, showcased his diverse interests. He was under the production of Rudy Perez during this time, and his decision to dip his toes into the music industry shows a more complex side of his personality.
During this time, his personal life continued to make headlines. A relationship with a woman named Milana Dravnel led to public scrutiny, further complicated by the release of intimate photographs. The leaked photos were a defining moment that put strain on his relationships and career. This was a period of intense personal challenges, which underscored the difficulties of managing public fame and private life.
De La Hoya's current relationship with Holly Sonders, a former sports broadcaster, presents a new chapter in his personal narrative. The couple met in 2021 at a boxing event, and their relationship quickly became public, highlighted by shared posts on social media. Sonders even has a tattoo of De La Hoya's Olympic gold medal, a testament to their bond. This new relationship highlights a fresh start and a potential for a more settled period in his personal life, coming after the dissolution of his marriage to Millie Corretjer.
His decision to legally end his relationship with Millie Corretjer, officially filing for divorce after a separation of several years, signifies the end of a significant chapter. This legal process, reported in detail by sources such as TMZ Sports, marks the formal closure of a chapter that has been filled with both joy and struggle. This is a reflection of his current journey.
The challenges didn't end when his professional career in boxing did. De La Hoya's role as a father of six children presents another layer of complexity. While his achievements in the ring are undeniable, his role as a father has also created various hurdles. Balancing his family life with his personal and professional ambitions showcases the multifaceted nature of his life, which is not without its difficulties.
Even though Oscar de la Hoya retired from boxing in 2008, his presence in the sport remains significant. He transitioned to boxing promotion through Golden Boy Promotions. This organization has been a major player in the sport, promoting some of the biggest names and events. His continued involvement underscores his passion for boxing and his desire to contribute to the sport's growth.
The story of Oscar De La Hoya is, in many ways, the story of a life lived in the public eye. Its a story of triumph, controversy, and continuous reinvention. From the gold medal in Barcelona to the establishment of a major boxing promotion company, the story of Oscar De La Hoya continues to unfold. He has also faced public challenges, and his willingness to revisit his controversial past, as referenced in his film project "The Golden Boy," reflects a desire for honesty and perhaps a measure of redemption. The former boxer's life is filled with moments that continue to capture the imagination of fans worldwide.
The narrative is shaped by the many factors that have influenced his life, and the legacy he is building continues to be discussed. From the ring to the boardroom, De La Hoya has shown a determination to conquer new challenges and has become a symbol of success and resilience. The story of De La Hoya continues, and it seems there are more chapters yet to be written.
The details surrounding De La Hoya's personal life have also been a major source of media coverage. The public is informed about his romantic relationships, his family life, and the many obstacles he has faced. The former boxer's legacy is marked by his career achievements, as well as the public scrutiny of his personal struggles. The scrutiny has created a complex narrative of a man who has been both celebrated and scrutinized, making his journey captivating and multifaceted.
