Edgar Berlanga, the promising super middleweight fighter from Brooklyn, New York, is gearing up for a significant return to the ring on March 8th, announcing his intentions with a bold “hit list” comprised of six notable opponents. In a recent video shared on social media, Berlanga showcased an energetic and unorthodox upper body movement. While his flashy technique may have garnered some chuckles, it underscores a serious commitment to refining his skills ahead of a competitive landscape filled with sharks ready to exploit any weaknesses.
Berlanga’s antics suggest he understands the importance of adapting and evolving, especially after facing setbacks in his past fights. These adjustments not only signify his ambition but also a recognition that in order to ascend in the super middleweight division, he must innovate his fighting style. His focus is evidently on preparing for tougher opponents and potentially paving the way for a lucrative rematch with the undisputed champion, Canelo Alvarez.
Central to Berlanga’s plan is his assertion that he seeks vengeance against Alvarez, whom he faced earlier in his career. This desire elevates the stakes not only for Berlanga but also for his chosen adversaries. Among the names on his hit list, Jaime Munguia stands out prominently. Berlanga is banking on the fierce rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico to stir interest and drive Pay-Per-View (PPV) sales, a strategy that plays into national pride and competitive spirit.
Munguia, despite being a significant name, recently suffered a knockout defeat, which raises questions about his readiness for a high-stakes matchup. For Berlanga to climb the ranks and create a scenario favorable for a rematch with Alvarez, defeating figures like Munguia would be crucial, yet a singular victory may not suffice. Berlanga must navigate his path judiciously, as the landscape of super middleweight is demanding, and he needs to demonstrate consistent performance to attract the desired rematch with Alvarez.
His hit list also comprises notable fighters like Jermall Charlo, Caleb Plant, Hamzah Sheeraz, and rising talent Diego Pacheco. However, the inclusion of Charlo—who has remained inactive for an extended period—raises concerns regarding viability. With Charlo seemingly waiting for lucrative offers to return, Berlanga may find pursuing him to be an exercise in futility unless there’s a significant financial motivation, possibly from external investors like Turki Al-Sheikh.
Berlanga’s focus on such prominent names reflects his tenacity and ambition; however, he must prioritize not only the feasibility of the matchups but also the strategic importance of each fight. Improving his punch resistance will be vital as evidenced by his past vulnerabilities against Alvarez and Alexis Angulo, where he was knocked down. The journey ahead is laden with challenges, and Berlanga needs to ensure that he not only lands on the right opponents but also enters the ring equipped to handle the pressures that come with them.
In summation, Edgar Berlanga appears determined to carve his niche within the super middleweight division. His self-asserted “hit list” indicates a clear strategy aimed at reestablishing his position as a top contender. As he embarks on this quest, he must balance ambition with realism, recognizing that the path to greatness is fraught with obstacles that require not only tenacity but also a calculated approach. The boxing community eagerly awaits Berlanga’s next steps, keen to see whether he can deliver on his promises and solidify his status in a highly contentious weight class.