TMZ is reporting that boxing superstar Oscar De La Hoya has checked into rehab. He reportedly entered a facility in California recently, exactly when is not clear.
The 38-year-old former boxer is said to be seeking help for issues related to substance abuse. It seems that so many celebrities of late have found themselves walking into that rehab door.
As TMZ pointed out, the Golden Boy posted some tweets yesterday that were somewhat reflective:
‘Stop finding excuses not to live.life is controlled by what you make of it and not of what it makes you.’
Shortly after the above tweet, the next one was posted:
‘Take a deep breathe (sic) and let out all that anger that makes you hate.it really is going to be o.k.’
Oscar and his wife Millie were wed 10 years ago and have two children together, a son, Oscar Jr, who is 5, and a daughter, Nina, age 3.
De La Hoya took a savage beating in the last fight of his career against the Filipino phenom, Manny Pacquiao, in December of 2008. It was a difficult fight to watch, and it was stopped in the 8th round. While he was the favorite to win, he was no match for Pacquiao. He announced his retirement in April of 2009.
De La Hoya just released the following statement to TMZ:
“After doing an honest evaluation of myself, I recognize that there are certain issues that I need to work on. Like everyone, I have my flaws, and I do not want to be one of those people that is afraid to admit and address those flaws. Throughout my career and my life, I have always met all challenges head-on, and this is no different. I am confident that with the support of my family and friends, I will become a stronger, healthier person. I ask for respect and privacy as my family and I go through this process.”
It doesn’t matter if the boxer was urged to enter rehab by family or friends or if he willingly chose to seek help on his own. Kudos to him for making the first step. That is always the hardest. He undoubtedly has a long road ahead of him and the support he receives from his family and friends during this personal matter is essential in his recovery. We wish you all the best, Oscar.
Photos: www.wenn.com
Credits: Judy Eddy/FayesVision/Nikki Nelson/Mary Ann Owen/RK
May 22nd, 2011 at 11:33 am
I hope he comes out on top. This guy gives hope to all of us average sized guys.