In the ever-evolving landscape of boxing, Edgar Berlanga (22-1, 17 KOs) is poised to carve his name among the elite in the super middleweight division. Recently, he expressed his intentions for a serious comeback in a video, showcasing a frenetic upper body movement that he hopes will provide him the edge in future bouts. While the energetic display seemed almost exaggerated, it reflects Berlanga’s earnest desire to refine his technique and emerge as a formidable contender. His video, shared on X, underscores the urgency he feels to elevate his game and position himself for lucrative matchups, particularly against renowned stars like Canelo Alvarez.
At the forefront of Berlanga’s ambitions is a carefully curated “hit list” of six fighters he believes will help him realize his championship dreams. Leading this list is Jaime Munguia, a bout that Berlanga perceives as not only competitive but also financially rewarding due to the intense Mexico-Puerto Rico rivalry. The fanfare and cultural implications surrounding such a matchup could translate into significant pay-per-view sales, a factor Berlanga has wisely identified in his pursuit of bigger fights. However, Munguia is currently recovering from a recent knockout loss to Bruno Surace, presenting a roadblock for Berlanga’s dreams since victory over him may not suffice to secure a rematch with Alvarez.
Despite the excitement surrounding Berlanga’s ambitions, it’s essential to consider the pragmatic aspects of his situation. His past encounters, particularly against Canelo Alvarez and Roamer Alexis Angulo, raised concerns about his punch resistance. Being knocked down in critical moments reveals vulnerabilities that Berlanga must address if he intends to challenge the upper echelon of fighters in his weight class. With this reality in mind, it’s not enough for Berlanga to simply display a new movement—he needs to strengthen his defensive strategies and ensure that he can withstand the power punches from top-tier contenders.
Berlanga’s hit list extends beyond Munguia to include fighters like Jermall Charlo, Caleb Plant, and Diego Pacheco. However, including 35-year-old Charlo raises questions about the practicality of this matchup. Charlo has been noticeably absent from the ring, leading to speculation about his future in boxing. Moreover, Berlanga’s hopes for a matchup with Charlo may hinge on external factors, including financial backing from influential figures like Turki Al-Sheikh. This uncertainty complicates Berlanga’s path, as he could invest time and effort into a fight that may never materialize.
Berlanga’s aspirations serve as a rallying cry for his fans and an ambitious plan to reclaim his standing in the sport. With a carefully selected hit list, he aims high, but the journey to the top will demand more than just speed and movement. It requires strategic planning, continuous improvement, and a willingness to confront both potential adversaries and his own weaknesses. As he navigates through the challenges of the super middleweight division, Berlanga remains focused on his ultimate goal: a rematch with Canelo Alvarez. The road ahead is fraught with obstacles, but with determination and the right approach, Berlanga could well find himself back in championship contention.