As the boxing world gears up for the much-anticipated showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Edgar Berlanga, sentiments around the match have been mixed. While it is undoubtedly a high-profile event, Oscar De La Hoya’s candid remarks have cast a shadow over the hype. The former champion and current promoter seems to have little faith in the bout’s ability to attract an audience, labeling it a “snoozefest” and expressing skepticism about its commercial success at the pay-per-view level. For fans accustomed to the drama and excitement of boxing, De La Hoya’s scathing critique raises legitimate concerns.
The main issue appears to stem from the apparent mismatch that many fans feel exists between Canelo, a seasoned champion with a storied career, and Berlanga, who, despite his impressive knockout record, lacks the pedigree of Canelo’s typical opponents. Fans had been eagerly awaiting a compelling matchup, ideally one against David Benavidez, who could offer the intensity expected in a championship fight. Instead, they’re presented with a challenger who feels more like a stepping stone than a formidable rival, prompting questions about why this fight was arranged in the first place.
Berlanga’s fiery retort to De La Hoya’s comments has added fuel to the flames. By calling De La Hoya a “w***er” on social media, Berlanga has devoted himself to dispelling doubts and reinforcing his status as a true contender. His confidence is palpable, suggesting he believes strongly in his potential to upset the odds and make a memorable statement. However, such bravado only serves to heighten the tension surrounding the event and sets the stage for what could be a thrilling drama within the ring.
The heated exchanges and contrasting opinions have led to significant speculation regarding pay-per-view buys. De La Hoya’s prediction of fewer than 100,000 buys casts a gloomy outlook on financial expectations for the fight. Could this underwhelming figure translate into a lackluster atmosphere on fight night? Fans are left to ponder whether the negativity surrounding the matchup will discourage viewership in an age when boxing seems to struggle for mainstream acceptance.
There’s an undeniable appeal in the prospect of watching Canelo Alvarez, a fighter often regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound, take on an ambitious challenger like Berlanga. With the fervor surrounding potential upsets in boxing, it’s not uncommon for a less than thrilling matchup to yield unexpected results. Could Berlanga surprise everyone, potentially silencing his critics and establishing himself as a legitimate contender?
Fans will have to tune in to discover if De La Hoya’s doubts hold true or if the upcoming bout defies expectations. One thing is certain: boxing aficionados will be eagerly awaiting September 14 to see whether the critics or the fighters will emerge victorious in this clash of perception and reality.