Edgar Berlanga’s assertion that he is the most significant puncher that Canelo Alvarez will face when they meet in September raises several questions. While Berlanga may believe in his own power, his track record doesn’t entirely support his claim. Despite his impressive knockout ratio in the past, his recent fights against B-level opponents have left much to be desired in terms of finishing ability.
It is concerning that Berlanga failed to knock out five of his last six opponents, especially when considering that those fighters were of a lower caliber than the likes of Gennadiy Golovkin, Miguel Cotto, Sergey Kovalev, and Dmitry Bivol. This lack of finishing power against lesser opponents may not bode well for his chances against a skilled and durable fighter like Canelo Alvarez.
Berlanga attributes his aggressive fighting style and knockout power to his training and the mentors he has had in his corner. He mentions being surrounded by ex-felons who have instilled a killer mentality in him. While this may provide him with a psychological edge, it remains to be seen whether it translates into tangible results in the ring against a seasoned champion like Canelo.
The vast difference in the level of competition faced by Canelo Alvarez and Edgar Berlanga is undeniable. While Canelo has been tested against elite fighters for years and has a proven track record, Berlanga’s management has carefully curated his opponents to build up his record. This stark contrast in experience and pedigree could play a significant role in the outcome of their upcoming fight.
It is worrisome to consider Berlanga’s future prospects in the sport, given the manner in which he has been maneuvered by his management. Placing him against subpar opposition for the majority of his career suggests that he may be destined for a cash-out fight rather than a legitimate shot at a world title. This strategic matchmaking could ultimately lead to a short-lived career for Berlanga.
While Edgar Berlanga may believe himself to be the hardest puncher that Canelo Alvarez has faced, his recent performances and the careful curation of his opponents raise doubts about his readiness for such a high-profile bout. Only time will tell whether Berlanga’s self-belief and training will be enough to overcome the vast difference in experience and skill between him and the formidable champion, Canelo Alvarez.