Trainer Teofimo Lopez Sr. has not held back in his assessment of Edgar Berlanga’s upcoming fight against Canelo Alvarez. He believes that Berlanga, with a record of 22-0 and 17 knockouts, lacks the necessary experience to face a fighter of Canelo’s caliber. Lopez Sr. points out that Berlanga’s promoters at Top Rank and Matchroom have not done him any favors by matching him with subpar opponents rather than challenging fighters who could help him grow and develop as a boxer. This has led to doubts about whether there was ever a genuine intention of improving Berlanga or if he was simply being built up for a lucrative payday against Canelo or another top fighter.
The protective matchmaking strategy employed by Berlanga’s team raises questions about his readiness for the elite level of competition. Lopez Sr. suggests that Berlanga has been carefully guided to preserve his undefeated record until a big-money fight could be secured. This approach may ultimately hinder Berlanga’s long-term development as a boxer, as he may not have faced the kind of challenges that would prepare him for a fighter like Canelo. The focus on maximizing profits rather than fostering Berlanga’s growth as a fighter could prove detrimental in the long run.
Despite the odds stacked against him, Lopez Sr. believes that Berlanga’s best chance against Canelo lies in taking a fearless approach. He emphasizes the importance of Berlanga going all out from the opening bell and emphasizing his power punching ability. Lopez Sr. acknowledges that Berlanga is unlikely to outbox Canelo and advises him to focus on being the aggressive fighter he once was known for. While the trainer remains doubtful of Berlanga’s chances of victory, he recognizes that every fighter has a puncher’s chance and encourages Berlanga to give his all in the ring.
Recent performances by Berlanga against fighters like Padraig McCrory, Jason Quigley, and Roamer Alexis Angulo have left much to be desired. Lopez Sr. acknowledges Berlanga’s shortcomings in these fights and expresses skepticism about his ability to withstand Canelo’s skills and power. He predicts that the fight is unlikely to go past seven rounds and foresees a knockout victory for Canelo. While Berlanga may possess potential, his flaws and inexperience could be glaring weaknesses when facing a fighter of Canelo’s caliber.
Edgar Berlanga faces an uphill battle in his upcoming fight against Canelo Alvarez. While his lack of experience and questionable matchmaking may have put him at a disadvantage, Trainer Teofimo Lopez Sr. believes that Berlanga’s best chance lies in adopting an aggressive and relentless approach against Canelo. However, Berlanga’s inconsistent performances and flaws may prove too much to overcome against a fighter of Canelo’s caliber. As the fight approaches, all eyes will be on Berlanga as he seeks to defy the odds and make a statement in the ring.