Canelo Alvarez, the celebrated WBA, WBC, and WBO super middleweight champion, is gearing up for a highly scrutinized fight against Edgar Berlanga on September 14th. Recent remarks made by Alvarez suggest he anticipates a similar dynamic to his previous match against Jaime Munguia, which took place on May 4th. While this fight generated excitement among fans, it also introduced a wave of criticism regarding Alvarez’s choice of opponent, as he is accused of selecting a fighter from a lower echelon.
In his encounter with Munguia, Alvarez demonstrated an unusual level of restraint, controlling the fight without appearing eager to secure a knockout. This approach stirred debate, as observers noted that he could have stopped Munguia in the fourth round but opted instead to extend the bout, seemingly out of mercy. The notion of ‘carrying’ an opponent resonated throughout this match; Alvarez appeared to be sparring rather than attempting to finish the fight with urgency. Now, as he looks toward his match against Berlanga, there are questions about whether he will adopt a similar strategy or face a different challenge altogether.
Despite Alvarez’s past willingness to show leniency in the ring, Berlanga’s reputation as a strong and aggressive puncher could complicate matters. With a record of 22 wins—17 of which were secured by knockout—Berlanga is known for his power and will likely come out swinging. The expectation that Canelo might have to step up his game is obligatory, especially with those who doubt Berlanga’s prowess as a legitimate challenger. If Alvarez chooses to exercise the same measured approach against Berlanga, he may not only risk injury but also the respect he has conveyed through previous performances.
Canelo’s decision to fight Berlanga has sparked criticism among boxing aficionados who question the validity of this matchup. Critics argue that Berlanga lacks the caliber of opponents that Canelo has previously faced, with many indicating that other fighters, such as Christian Mbilli and David Benavidez, would have been more deserving challengers. To some observers, Alvarez’s choice to fight Berlanga—a fighter who is perceived to be less experienced and formidable—begins to resemble a ‘retirement tour’ rather than a pursuit of challenging fights that define a fighter’s legacy.
While Alvarez may believe the allure of a Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalry, fans quickly pointed out that Berlanga does not authentically represent Puerto Rico, as he was born in New York. This disconnection creates a layer of complexity in the event’s promotional narrative. The camaraderie and competitive spirit traditionally associated with such national rivalries could be diminished when examined through this lens.
The upcoming fight has generated considerable buzz, yet it raises concerns surrounding its price point. Being marketed for $89.99 may alienate some fans who are wary of spending such a sum on a match perceived as a lopsided contest between an elite champion and a less accomplished contender. Previous pay-per-view events have at times rewarded spectators with the thrill of closely matched fighters, but Canelo’s choice of Berlanga has prompted fears of an underwhelming fight experience that could tarnish the champion’s reputation.
If the fight unfolds as many predict—with Canelo dominating Berlanga—it might lead to disappointment among fans and contribute to a dip in enthusiasm for subsequent events featuring Alvarez. Given this precarious balance between expectation and reality, the fight is poised to shape Canelo’s legacy in unforeseen ways.
As Berlanga prepares for this significant opportunity, the fight represents a critical juncture in his career. With no shortage of stakes riding on this matchup, Berlanga must incorporate strategic depth into his approach. Whereas Canelo embodies experience and finesse honed through years spent competing against the elite, Berlanga must rise to the occasion by truly asserting his capabilities rather than merely relying on brute strength. If he can showcase versatility and an ability to adapt as the fight unfolds, he might earn respect not only for himself but also redefine the public’s perception of this match-up.
Overall, while the critical lens through which fans view this fight underscores broader concerns regarding the future of boxing, it also presents a compelling narrative filled with potential for both fighters. As Alvarez and Berlanga step into the ring, boxing enthusiasts will find themselves entangled in the intrigue, hoping for a match that transcends expectations and delivers the excitement befitting the storied sport.