As Canelo Alvarez prepares to face Edgar Berlanga at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas this Saturday, the stakes have never been higher for the Mexican boxing sensation. With Alvarez now nearing 35, questions about his longevity and competitiveness have surfaced, especially after his recent performances which haven’t inspired confidence among fans and analysts alike. This matchup could symbolize the beginning of the end for Alvarez, a once-dominant force in boxing, and a loss to the relatively underdog Berlanga could have pressing implications for his future.
Alvarez (61-2-2, 39 KOs) is no stranger to victory, yet the past few years have cast shadows over his illustrious career. His last four fights have seen him feasting upon lesser opponents following a deflating defeat to Dmitry Bivol in May 2022. During this period, he seemed to be more focused on maintaining a facade of relevance rather than facing the top tier competition that defined his earlier years. The decline has been obvious; Canelo has struggled to find his rhythm and sharpness which raises doubts about his current capabilities, particularly when facing a notable puncher like Berlanga (22-0, 17 KOs).
Berlanga may be viewed as an underdog, yet his record reflects an eagerness to prove himself against a seasoned fighter such as Canelo. If Berlanga prevails, particularly by knockout, the implications could be severe. Such a defeat would not just dent Canelo’s résumé but could also signal a need to consider retirement, as the sweet science has little tolerance for fighters who are past their prime.
One of the most challenging aspects of Canelo’s predicament is the element of pride. Renowned not just for his accomplishments in the ring but also for his fighting spirit, Canelo may find it difficult to admit that his time at the top is dwindling. Boxing history is littered with greats like Evander Holyfield and Roy Jones Jr., who, despite their legendary status, lingered in the ring longer than their skills permitted. This often led to a tarnished legacy rather than a graceful exit. If Alvarez were to lose to Berlanga and then pursue a rematch, he risks becoming a stepping stone rather than a champion.
Rumors have swirled around Alvarez potentially insisting on a rematch should he face defeat. Although this could draw massive attention and generate significant revenue, it would also lead to the uncomfortable realization that he is now a target for hungry challengers looking to make their mark.
The long-term ramifications of the upcoming fight are critical, not only for Canelo’s career but also for his legacy. If Berlanga defeats him, especially in a decisive manner, it would mark a significant shift in the public’s perception of Alvarez. His legacy as one of boxing’s all-time greats would undoubtedly come under scrutiny, given the trajectory of his recent fights. The question looming over this matchmaking is structural: can Alvarez bounce back, or is this the start of a decline into mediocrity?
Chris Mannix captured the precariousness of Alvarez’s condition when discussing the potential outcomes against Berlanga. He noted that a loss wouldn’t necessarily dictate the end, but losing a second time could confirm the narrative that Canelo is no longer the fighter he once was. The age factor is also crucial; Canelo’s mid-30s may not be old for many; however, in boxing, the miles a fighter accumulates can take a toll on their performance.
As Alvarez steps into the ring against Berlanga, fans will observe closely not just for the outcome but for the signs of Canelo’s prowess and resilience as a fighter. The anticipation of this bout extends beyond immediate victory; it represents the crossroads at which Canelo finds himself. If he emerges victorious, it may temporarily shield him from the impending narrative of decline. However, if Berlanga secures the upset, it could mark a profound chapter in boxing history where a legend confronts inevitable retirement.
The clash between Canelo Alvarez and Edgar Berlanga may very well decide the future of two contrasting careers—one that is seasoned but potentially on the brink of fading, and another hungry for recognition. As the boxing world gears up for this pivotal moment, all eyes are on Canelo, waiting to see if he can silence the doubters or if his time is genuinely running out.