Popó suggests returning to the ring to face Oscar De La Hoya: 'I applied'

A. Popó (photo) offers to face O. De La Hoya on the American's return to the ring. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

The announcement of the return of Mike Tyson to the ring seems to have given a boost to other great boxing representatives who had retired. One of those 'affected' could be the legendary Acelino Popó Freitas, retired since 2017, who offered to face former world champion Oscar De La Hoya, who recently confirmed his desire to return to the sport, at the age of 47.

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“Regarding my return to the ring, (Oscar) de la Hoya is looking for an opponent. He is 47 years old, I am 44, and I applied to be one of the opponents to see if he accepts or not, and I am in the running. If he accepts, we will train and look for a little opportunity to fight with De La Hoya, we will see if he works out”, said the Brazilian, in an interview with 'FOXSports.com.br'.

Considered one of the biggest names in the history of Brazilian boxing, Popó enjoyed his peak between 1998 and 2007. On his extensive CV, the Bahian boasts world belts in super-featherweight, by the WBO, WBA and lightweight, by the WBO.

Acelino retired from the sport in 2007, but accepted the challenge of facing the then promising, Michael Oliveira, in 2012, when he defeated his young compatriot by knockout in the 9th round. After his return, the Bahian made two more appearances, in 2015 and 2017, winning the first by knockout, against Mateo Veron, and the second, against Gabriel Martinez, on points.

Known for his successful life in the ring and confusion outside of it, De La Hoya is one of the most controversial figures in boxing history. Undisputed world champion in six different weight divisions, Oscar also holds an Olympic title at the Barcelona games in 1992. Despite a past of glories in sport, the North American with Mexican roots made public, years ago, his chemical dependency on drugs and alcohol.

Oscar has not performed since December 2008. On that occasion, the fighter was beaten by Manny Pacquiao. In total, De La Hoya fought 45 fights, winning 39 and losing six. Popó, in turn, has a record of 43 clashes, with 41 positive results and two setbacks.