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Oscar De La Hoya Heads To Rehab For Substance Abuse

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — Boxer legend Oscar De La Hoya has reportedly checked himself into a rehabilitation facility in California.

Entertainment Web site TMZ.com reports De La Hoya entered the facility sometime in the past few weeks. TMZ reports he has voluntarily begun treatment for substance abuse.

"After doing an honest evaluation of myself, I recognize that there are certain issues that I need to work on," De La Hoya said in a statement to TMZ.

"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."

De La Hoya won an Olympic gold medal for boxing back in 1992. He retired in 2009 with a record of nearly 40 wins.

The 38-year-old former boxer has also established the Los Angeles-based sport promotions company Golden Boy Promotions.

De La Hoya's former promoter, Bob Arum, said he "wishes Oscar the best, and hopes the rehabilitation succeeds," the Los Angeles Times reported.

(©2011 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

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