Edgar Berlanga, once a rising star in the super middleweight division, finds himself at a critical juncture following his recent defeat to Canelo Alvarez. In his latest training video, Berlanga appeared significantly larger than before, hinting at a possible shift in weight classes. The image of the Brooklyn native, who had previously struggled to make the 168-pound limit, raises questions about his future in the division. As he prepares for his next bout on March 8, the implications of his newfound size could mean a transition to the light heavyweight class, a move fraught with potential challenges.
Speculations are mounting about Berlanga’s next opponent, with Gabe Rosado emerging as a potential contender. The bout, likely to take place in Puerto Rico, could be considered a mere stepping stone in Berlanga’s career trajectory. While a fight against Rosado might seem like an easier matchup, it carries its own set of risks. Rosado, at 39 years old and coming off four consecutive losses, may not provide the level of competition needed to assess Berlanga’s readiness for elite fighters. Critics will undoubtedly scrutinize the decision to face Rosado, questioning Berlanga’s commitment to fighting at the highest level of the sport.
The Weight Dilemma
The inherent difficulty of making weight is becoming increasingly apparent for Berlanga. His previous appearance at 168 pounds left him looking drained and emaciated, and there are concerns that he may not be able to return to the super middleweight division effectively. This situation presents a paradox: while fighting at a higher weight class might afford him some advantages in strength and power, it also poses a question about his effectiveness against more seasoned and heavier opponents. If Berlanga chooses to fight at or above 175 pounds for his upcoming match, the ramifications for his career could be long-lasting, steering him further away from his original weight class and its associated opportunities.
Despite the setbacks, Berlanga remains ambitious, listing several fighters he wishes to tackle in the near future. Among them are big names like Jamie Munguia, Jermall Charlo, and even a potential rematch with Canelo Alvarez. Berlanga’s focus on a fight against Munguia is particularly notable, as he believes their match could generate significant pay-per-view interest, capitalizing on the storied rivalry between Puerto Rico and Mexico in the boxing world. This ambition reflects Berlanga’s desire to reclaim his status as a contender and find lucrative opportunities that will re-establish his career.
The Tattoo Controversy
Adding another layer to the narrative is Berlanga’s recent tattoo that appears to pay homage to Canelo Alvarez. Whether this gesture is intended as a form of flattery or an earnest desire for a rematch remains ambiguous. Nonetheless, it highlights Berlanga’s acknowledgment of Alvarez’s clout in the boxing universe. With a hefty purse of $10 million from his previous encounter with Canelo, it’s clear that Berlanga is after not only redemption but also financial gain.
Edgar Berlanga stands at the crossroads of his boxing career, confronted by the realities of weight management, the right choice of opponents, and the pathway back to championship status. His decisions in the coming months will shape not only his future but also how he is perceived in the boxing community. It is a make-or-break moment, and the choices he makes will define his legacy moving forward.