De La Hoya to continue fighting

Oscar De La Hoya insisted he is not set to retire after his "super bout" with Manny Pacquiao.

The pair began their extended publicity tour for their December 6 fight at the Statue of Liberty.

De La Hoya broke box office and pay-per-view records with his narrow loss to Floyd Mayweather Jr last year and the sport's most bankable star said that fight proved he could still compete at an elite level.

The announcement could open the door for a clash with Ricky Hatton at Wembley next year.

Hatton made a similar announcement about retiring during the build-up to his fight with Paulie Malignaggi, so an eagerly anticipated battle between the pair is looking increasingly likely.

Before then, both de La Hoya and Pacquiao will square off at 147 pounds, a drop for De La Hoya and a big gain for the Filipino, who only six months ago fought Juan Manuel Marquez at 130 pounds.

The bout pits Pacquiao against De La Hoya - of Mexican lineage - and the Golden Boy said nationality will play a huge part in the bout.

He said: "My family came from Mexico as Mexican immigrants and I was very honoured and I still am obviously of being born and raised in this country."

Suitably named The Mexicutioner for his victories over several Mexican boxers, Pacquiao agreed with De La Hoya's take on representing their respective countries.

He said: "Fighting Oscar is a great honour and privilege. This is no mismatch. On December 6 the entire Filipino people with their prayer and support will give me inspiration and determination. I will be fighting to give glory and honour to my country."

© Independent Television News Limited 2008. All rights reserved.