The boxing world is no stranger to fighters making claims about their prowess, yet Edgar Berlanga’s assertion that he ranks among the top three opponents ever faced by Canelo Alvarez invites both intrigue and skepticism. Berlanga, with a professional record of 22 wins, 1 loss, and 17 knockouts, makes a bold reference to his own performance against Canelo, citing only Dmitry Bivol and Floyd Mayweather Jr. as peers in terms of challenge. However, this self-assertion raises eyebrows considering the nature of his fight style, where he appeared more as a target than an adversary.
During the match against Canelo, Berlanga’s approach primarily revolved around defensive maneuvers that resulted in minimal offensive output. It became evident that instead of an authentic strategy to counter Canelo’s renowned boxing IQ, Berlanga resorted to an elderly tactic of relying on his jab without implementing any discernible aggression. The outcome, a one-sided battle that saw him absorb significant punishment, casts a shadow over his claims of intelligence and adaptability. While he may have displayed resilience by managing to take hard shots, it is questionable whether such a performance warrants a place among Canelo’s elite challengers.
Interestingly, Berlanga’s ability to absorb damage can also be scrutinized through the lens of his physical condition. Rehydrating to a whopping 193 pounds, he entered the ring significantly heavier than traditional super middleweight competitors. While this aspect might contribute to his durability, it concurrently underlines his tactical deficiencies. The question arises: was Berlanga’s performance a result of superior conditioning or merely a reflection of a flawed game plan in which weight was prioritized over skill? As Canelo has faced opponents adept at varying strategies and quick footwork, Berlanga’s reliance on size alone is unlikely to lead to championship victories.
Beyond Berlanga’s self-promotion lies a broader context within the sport. Canelo Alvarez boasts a formidable resume filled with fighters like Gennadiy Golovkin, Erislandy Lara, and Miguel Cotto—each presenting unique challenges that have tested his capabilities beyond what Berlanga displayed. The depth of competition Canelo has faced underscores the difficulty of placing Berlanga in the same category as these renowned adversaries. Such anomalies can skew perceptions but highlight the importance of credible competition in establishing a fighter’s legacy.
As Berlanga continues his career, the pathway to becoming a legitimate championship contender appears foggy at best. Techniques need honing, strategic foresight must be cultivated, and the capacity to both evade and retaliate should be refined. Acknowledging these critical areas of improvement is essential if he aims to reshape public perception and truly ascend the ranks. In a sport where self-belief is crucial, finding balance between confidence and reality is key to achieving success—and perhaps a future title. While Berlanga presents himself as a worthy opponent, the reality of boxing reveals a multitude of challenges that he must overcome to solidify his claims.