Canelo Alvarez is overlooking and disrespecting September 14 opponent Edgar Berlanga, according to the man who fought tooth and nail to work with him.
Eddie Hearn, who has been involved in several Canelo fights since expanding his promotional company Matchroom Boxing to the United States, is in the weird position of handling the Mexican superstar’s rival.
As Berlanga’s promoter, Hearn has to side with the Puerto Rican despite knowingly being one of Canelo’s most significant supporters.
As he aims to draw interest in Canelo vs. Berlanga, Hearn had some choice words for the unified super middleweight champion.
“It doesn’t get any bigger than Canelo fight weeks. I think Edgar is being overlooked and disrespected. He’s here only to win. He had 16 first-round knockouts in his first 16 fights. He has dynamite in his hands and will put everything on the line on September 14.
“I know Canelo wants real fights and guys who will come at him to win. Edgar will come for a firefight. It’s even deeper than Puerto Rico vs. Mexico because this is the opportunity of a lifetime for Edgar Berlanga.
“This is going to be a wild week. Incredible scenes. But remember one thing: Edgar Berlanga is coming to dethrone the king.”
Berlanga is likened to Mike Tyson in a recent media sweep due to those first-round knockouts Hearn mentioned. However, the level of opposition has to be questioned.
Despite the smoke and mirrors, Canelo’s coach, Eddy Reynoso, is not taking Berlanga lightly and believes his charge will be in a real fight next month.
“Mexico vs. Puerto Rico has historically been a war; that’s how it’s always been,” said Reynoso. “We have seen that since those memorable Julio Cesar Chavez fights and those Salvador Sanchez victories.
“Berlanga is a great Puerto Rican contender who wants to take all the belts. But we are in great shape and ready to give you all a great fight on September 14.”
Canelo is a considerable favorite to win, with some number crunchers offering odds of 12/1 for Berlanga to cause the upset at T-Mobile Arena.
Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay. Learn more about the author, experienced boxing writer, and World Boxing News Editor since 2010. Follow on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
