A judge has indicated he may impose $100 sanctions on attorneys for both sides after they failed to show up for an arbitration status conference regarding claims by a former employee for Oscar De La Hoya’s company that the ex-fighter told him he would “be safe for as long as I remained loyal to him,” yet later fired the plaintiff.
Ramiro Gonzalez, now 69, says in his Los Angeles Superior Court lawsuit that the 52-year-old boxing promoter lured him in 2007 from his sportswriting job with La Opinion, where he had a “stellar reputation within the sports community,” to be Golden Boy Promotions Inc.’s public relations director “with promises of fortune and lifelong support.”
In November 2024, Judge Lynne Hobbs granted a defense motion directing that Gonzalez’ claims be heard by an arbitrator rather than a jury. The De Lay Hoya attorneys argued in their court papers that Gonzalez entered into a binding arbitration agreement in March 2007 in which both sides agreed to resolve any employment disputes through that procedure.
Judge Richard Kemalyan is now presiding over the Gonzalez case and when the attorneys for both parties were no-shows for Friday’s arbitration status conference, the judge said he may fine both lawyers $100 each during the next hearing on Oct. 5, 2026. Kemalyan also ordered that the attorneys file status reports on the arbitration five days before the hearing.
Gonzalez further contends in the suit brought in April 2023 that he contributed significantly to Golden Boy’s growth and management and that he assisted in covering up De La Hoya’s frequent “improper conduct” and “illicit behavior,” demonstrating the harm that compounded the alleged hostile work environment in which the plaintiff worked.
While recruiting Gonzalez, De La Hoya “made clear promises to me that went beyond what was typical in employment negotiations,” the plaintiff contended. “He assured me of his 100% support and loyalty, saying that my position at Golden Boy would be safe for as long as I remained loyal to him and the company.”
De La Hoya also allegedly often told Gonzalez that he could “expect a share in Golden Boy’s growth, including potential equity sharing as Golden Boy’s influence expanded,” the plaintiff additionally maintained.
Gonzalez said he “committed my professional efforts entirely to Golden Boy, often going above and beyond my role, knowing that my efforts were secure under Oscar’s direct assurance.”
Gonzalez also maintained that a mediation process between the parties earlier this year depleted his resources and that De La Hoya did not negotiate within the previously agreed upon range in which a settlement could be reached. De La Hoya’s side then moved to compel arbitration, according to Gonzalez.
“This reversal imposed a significant financial and emotional burden, creating an unfair advantage for defendants and delaying the resolution of my claims,” Gonzalez said.