Edgar Berlanga, the promising super middleweight contender with a record of 22 wins and only one loss, is on a quest for redemption and recognition in the boxing world. After an underwhelming performance against Canelo Alvarez, Berlanga is adamant about crafting a “hit list” that outlines his ambitions for the upcoming fights. His focus appears to be on enhancing his skills, as demonstrated through a recently shared video featuring his unique upper body movements that, while entertaining, raise eyebrows in the boxing community. It seems Berlanga is determined to adapt and evolve—traits essential for competing against the elite in his division.
Berlanga’s aspirations are firmly anchored on a matchup with Jaime Munguia. Tapping into the deep-rooted rivalry between Puerto Rico and Mexico, Berlanga believes that a fight against Munguia would not only attract significant pay-per-view numbers but also harness the Puerto Rican fanbase’s support. Munguia, however, comes off a recent knockout defeat, indicating that this battle might not be easy territory for Berlanga. It is possible that a victory over Munguia won’t be sufficient for a shot at Canelo, unless the Mexican superstar is tempted solely by lucrative deals.
Berlanga’s need for a careful approach is clear. His previous outings have revealed vulnerabilities, particularly regarding his chin. The knockdowns he suffered against Canelo and Roamer Alexis Angulo spoke volumes regarding his punch resistance. Therefore, any strategy Berlanga employs moving forward has to prioritize his defensive capabilities while also keeping his aggression and knockout power intact.
An Ambitious Hit List
The six-fighter hit list released by Berlanga serves as an interesting blend of names, including not just Munguia but also Jermall Charlo, Caleb Plant, Hamzah Sheeraz, a rematch with Canelo Alvarez, and Diego Pacheco. However, the inclusion of Charlo, who has had an infrequent fighting schedule, raises questions about its practicality. Without a substantial financial incentive, as seen with the support of Turki Al-Sheikh, a Berlanga-Charlco fight is likely a dream rather than a plan in the making.
What’s intriguing about Berlanga’s approach is how he frames these matchups—not merely as fights but as potential events that could excite fans. The enthusiasm he exhibits means that he is not just fighting for wins; he is also pursuing a legacy that resonates beyond the ring. This ambition can resonate well within the boxing community, especially in a time when fans crave thrilling matchups and compelling narratives.
As Berlanga maneuvers through the complexities of matchmaking and training, his perspective reflects a fighter determined to reclaim his stature. The pressure to perform looms larger than ever, especially as he aims for a quick rematch with a seasoned titan like Canelo Alvarez. Whether he realizes these ambitions hinges on how he hones his technique and fortifies his defenses in the coming months. If Berlanga can navigate these challenges effectively, he may just reclaim his spot as one of the most exciting names in the super middleweight division.