Five months have passed since Canelo Álvarez last defended his super middleweight titles, and he is set to return to the ring.
Álvarez, known as “Cinnamon,” is coming off a victory over Jaime Munguia in May, marking Munguia’s first career loss. Álvarez’s next opponent is undefeated knockout artist Edgar Berlanga, a Puerto Rican fighter who began his professional career with 16 consecutive first-round knockouts.
Berlanga has refined his skills over his last six fights, facing tougher competition, but his knockout power remains a significant threat to Álvarez.
When asked by DAZN if he is the hardest puncher Álvarez has ever faced, Berlanga responded, “100%.”
Despite Berlanga’s impressive power, he lacks the experience of Álvarez, who is one of boxing’s most accomplished fighters. Álvarez has continued to perform at a high level well into his mid-30s.
Since his loss to Dmitry Bivol in May 2022, Álvarez has won four consecutive fights against Gennady Golovkin, John Ryder, Jermell Charlo, and Munguia. Álvarez decisively defeated Charlo over 12 rounds and overcame an early challenge from Munguia to secure a unanimous decision victory.
Álvarez is known for his powerful body punches and strategic acumen, attributes that could pose difficulties for the less-experienced Berlanga, who has shown moments of vulnerability against seasoned opponents.
Berlanga struggled against Marcelo Esteban Coceres in October 2021 and exhibited frustration in his fight with Roamer Alexis Angulo in June 2022, even attempting to bite Angulo’s shoulder. Berlanga won the bout but was later suspended for six months due to the incident.
Álvarez is confident in his experience and skill, stating, “No, no chance,” when asked if Berlanga could defeat him. He added, “The experience I have, the intelligence, my boxing ability. I’ve already won Sept. 14.”
The fight will determine whether Canelo Álvarez will maintain his dominance or if Edgar Berlanga will make a statement in the super middleweight division. The bout is scheduled to take place this Saturday in Las Vegas, featuring a clash between Mexico and Puerto Rico.
