Current world super middleweight title challenger Edgar Berlanga revealed familiar but failing fight tactics to combat Canelo Alvarez this fall.
According to the big-punching Puerto Rican, ‘The Chosen One’ plans to trade off with Canelo in leather exchanges. That kind of blueprint has proven wholely unsuccessful in the past.
The only two fighters to defeat the Mexican superstar were those who out and out boxed Canelo, racking up enough points to earn a decision. Floyd Mayweather and Dmitry Bivol successfully deployed this game plan in 2015 and 2022.
Berlanga, who is known more for his knockout ratio early in his career, believes fighting fire with fire will be his only shot at winning.
“I’m the type of fighter who comes to fight. I won’t be running. Canelo was once in my shoes, and now it’s my time to make my name known and become a legend in the sport of boxing,” said Berlanga.
“This is going to be a firefight. It’s going to be different. This is a gladiator sport at the end of the day. We’re looking to take each other out. It’s going to the next level.
“He’s fought everybody, and he’s seen it all. The difference in this fight isn’t physical. It’s about IQ and intelligence in that ring. That’s going to make the difference. You could have all the power in the world, but at this level, it’s about intelligence.”
He added, “I’m blessed to have this opportunity to be in the ring with a legend. This is going to be a night for the history books. Mexico vs. Puerto Rico fights of this magnitude stay in the history books forever.
“On September 14, it’s fireworks. He sees it in my eyes. I’m never scared. I’m coming to take his spot in this sport.”
Canelo, who was as unfazed as a champion could be at the press tour, stated, “I respect my opponents, but I like to respond when they talk. I’m going to be at my best on September 14. But I’m not going to have any compassion for him. I’m going to be different. He needs twenty of him to give me any problems.”
On continuing to focus on the next obstacle in his way, Canelo added, “I motivate myself because I love what I do. But this type of fight motivates me even more, and these types of fighters who talk to me like that. It gets me excited. I will train like never before to win everything on September 14.
“I’m proud to represent my country, especially on days like Mexican Independence Day and especially in a Mexico vs. Puerto Rico matchup. I’m going to represent my country in fashion on September 14.”
After Berlanga seemed agitated during the media gatherings, Canelo concluded, “Take it easy, man, because your turn is coming.
“He thinks he has more intelligence than me and everyone I’ve fought. Come on, bro, he’s not going to be able to touch me. I wanna see him try.”
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.
