In a surprising declaration post-fight, Edgar Berlanga asserted his place amongst the elite opponents faced by Canelo Alvarez, claiming he ranks alongside fighters like Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Dmitry Bivol. Berlanga, who holds a professional record of 22-1 with 17 knockouts, positioned himself as a formidable challenger, suggesting that his contributions in the ring that night merit acknowledgment as one of Canelo’s toughest encounters. However, this assertion raises eyebrows, particularly considering the nature of their recent bout.
During the fight, Berlanga displayed a lack of offensive capability, primarily resorting to jabs and failing to engage in a more aggressive strategy. His performance could be likened to that of a punching bag rather than a challenging opponent that Canelo has faced in the past. The contrast is stark when one reviews Canelo’s history of opponents, from the likes of Gennadiy Golovkin to Erislandy Lara, who all presented formidable challenges. Berlanga’s fight strategy appeared simplistic, and his inability to make a significant impact in the ring overshadowed his claims of being among Canelo’s best challengers.
It is plausible that Berlanga is not fully aware of Canelo’s extensive resume. An examination of Canelo Alvarez’s history reveals he has faced a plethora of skilled fighters, each posing unique threats. Berlanga’s comparison seems to understate the level of competition Canelo has regularly encountered. Fighters who fought Alvarez have demonstrated a range of skills, making Berlanga’s assessment appear somewhat naive. More seasoned professionals take into account the overall skills present in the ring rather than moments of physical endurance.
One of the factors contributing to Berlanga’s apparent durability in the ring during the fight against Canelo was his rehydration to 193 lbs, significantly above the super middleweight limit. This strategy may have allowed him to absorb punches rather efficiently, but it did not translate into effective boxing during the match. Relying solely on weight and resistance is not a sustainable method for achieving boxing supremacy, and it raises doubts about Berlanga’s long-term viability as a contender for a world title. Unquestionably, his strategy lacked the finesse required to exploit openings in Canelo’s defense.
As Berlanga moves forward in his career, the question of whether he can refine his technique and ultimately vie for a world title looms large. While he shows flashes of potential, his current approach reveals significant flaws that need addressing. In a highly competitive landscape filled with fighters who not only endure but strategically counter, Berlanga faces an uphill battle. Without considerable improvement in his boxing style, claims of being among Canelo’s crème de la crème may remain unfulfilled.
While Edgar Berlanga’s ambition in positioning himself as a top contender is admirable, the reality of his performance tells a different story. The boxing community will be watching closely as he attempts to redefine his approach and validate his aspirations in the ring.