BY BOXING HIT STAFF-
In the aftermath of Edgar Berlanga’s latest bout, the 27-year-old has boldly asserted his place among the top opponents that Canelo Alvarez has faced throughout his illustrious boxing career. With a record of 22 wins and just one loss, Berlanga claims to rank third behind boxing legends Dmitry Bivol and Floyd Mayweather Jr. However, an in-depth examination of Berlanga’s performance against Canelo reveals a less than flattering picture, prompting a reevaluation of his assertion.
Berlanga’s performance in the ring against Canelo was underwhelming at best. While he successfully absorbed Canelo’s powerful punches, his strategy primarily revolved around avoiding damage rather than mounting a significant offensive challenge. His reliance on throwing jabs predominantly did little to impact the fight meaningfully. Observers noted that he often resembled a punching bag, with minimal offensive creativity and a lack of effective countering that is essential when facing a boxer of Canelo’s caliber. This stark contrast raises questions about Berlanga’s self-assessment and whether he adequately understands the competitive landscape of professional boxing.
To grasp the magnitude of Berlanga’s claim, it is critical to consider the caliber of fighters that Canelo Alvarez has faced over nearly two decades. Notable opponents like Gennadiy Golovkin, Erislandy Lara, and Miguel Cotto presented far more robust challenges than Berlanga did. These fighters not only showcased technical proficiency but also pushed Canelo to his limits in ways that Berlanga failed to do. This comparison serves to illuminate Berlanga’s misconceptions about his standing in the boxing hierarchy.
Another aspect to consider is Berlanga’s physical preparation for the fight. Weighing in at an impressive 193 lbs, he certainly had the size advantage within the super middleweight division. However, this substantial weight gain may have merely facilitated his ability to absorb hits—an ability that does not inherently translate to boxing skill or winning strategies. His apparent ability to withstand punishment does not compensate for the flaws in his offensive approach, and raises further doubts about his future prospects in the sport.
The Future of Edgar Berlanga
Given his current trajectory, the question of whether Berlanga can secure a world title becomes increasingly significant. While he possesses commendable qualities as a fighter, his propensity to receive punishment when executing offensive maneuvers suggests a critical vulnerability that could hinder his potential for elite success. Acknowledging these flaws and investing in a more diverse range of techniques would be essential steps for Berlanga if he seeks to challenge for titles or stand shoulder to shoulder with the real greats of the sport.
While Berlanga’s self-confidence and belief in his abilities are admirable, they seem disproportionate to his actual performance against Canelo Alvarez. The boxing world is littered with talented fighters, and merely staying on one’s feet against a champion does not qualify one among the elite class. Berlanga’s future success will depend on his willingness to improve and adapt, turning reflection into actionable growth on his journey in professional boxing.
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