When Oscar De La Hoya won the gold medal at the Olympic Games in 1992, he moved to center stage for a boxing career that includes five professional world championships, millions of dollars in purses and loyal fans around the globe.

He’ll take on another challenge on May 6 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena when he battles Ricardo Mayorga for the World Boxing Council World Super Welterweight Championship.

Along with Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard, Oscar is one of the few fighters whose popularity transcends boxing: he has attracted millions of “casual” fans to the sport. As his career in the ring enters its final chapter, he continues with the task of advancing the world of boxing. This time, however, he is doing it outside the ring, as a promoter.

In only 2 1/2 years, Oscar’s Golden Boy Promotions has become one of the leading promotional companies with a big roster of champions under its banner and an active schedule that included 31 promotions in 2005 and a like amount scheduled for this year. As he enters a new chapter in his business life, Oscar and wife Millie Corretjer, a pop star in Puerto Rico, welcomed their first child together, Oscar Gabriel. Little Oscar joins 7-year-old Jacob and 6-year-old Atiana, Oscar’s other children.

His penchant for new endeavors defines De La Hoya, leading him to a career in music, during which he released a Grammy Award nominated CD and met Millie who sings on the same record label. His eclectic interests also fuel a great love of golf. Unlike many athletes, Oscar is not easy to categorize. This man, who wears so many hats in both his personal and professional life, offers us a lot to delve into.

Q: On May 6th you will box at the MGM Grand Garden Arena for the 10th time in your career – it’s like a boxing home away from home for you. What is your best boxing memory from this arena?

A: Actually, it all starts with the room I stay in – they always put me up in a luxurious suite. I remember the first time, as a very young fighter, opening the doors to this big suite and it was a surprise to me. It has always been something to look forward to.