Boxing great, singer and sports promoter Oscar De La Hoya has checked into rehab to seek help for a substance abuse problem.

The retired fighter, nicknamed The Golden Boy, entered a treatment centre in California earlier this month.

In a statement issued to TMZ.com, he writes, "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."

De La Hoya was among the most revered boxers in the late 1990s. He quit the ring in 2009.