Edgar Berlanga‘s upcoming bout with Canelo Alvarez is generating significant buzz. Not only does it pit two super middleweight fighters against each other, but it also highlights the historic boxing rivalry between Puerto Rico and Mexico. Amidst all this, Berlanga has made a truly bold prediction ahead of their highly anticipated matchup on Mexican Independence Day. Here is what happened:
Edgar Berlanga is 27 years old and undefeated with a 22-0 record. He looks to shock the world by knocking out the Mexican champion and boxing icon Canelo Alvarez in the sixth round. His confidence stems from both his youthful energy and belief that Canelo’s extensive experience—having fought 65 times—has taken a toll on his body.
This is war. It’s Puerto Rico vs. Mexico. It’s something for the history books… He’s going in to hurt me, and I’ve got to go in and hurt him. I’m going to knock him out in the sixth round… I’m ready. I’ve been in this game for 20 years. We’re about to make history… When it’s time to shine, and it’s my moment, I always come through. This weekend, Saturday is going to be history.
Edgar Belranga at the pre-fight presser
This fight is seen as the biggest of Berlanga’s career. He expressed excitement at the scale of the event, comparing the atmosphere to a concert or WWE event. However, the Puerto Rican recognizes that the stakes are much higher for this fight as his opponent is going to put him to that level.
For Canelo, this is another step in his storied career. However, he did acknowledge the challenge of facing a younger, hungry fighter like Berlanga. Despite Berlanga’s confidence, Canelo pointed out that he has faced and defeated all styles of fighters over his career. He also dismissed Berlanga’s knockout prediction and predicted his own eighth-round knockout.
Mexican fans troll Edgar Berlanga by chanting Canelo Alvarez’s name
The backdrop of Mexican Independence Day adds even more excitement to the fight. This day is often used for significant boxing events in Mexico. That makes this bout even more meaningful for Canelo, who is fighting in front of a crowd with strong national pride.
The Puerto Rico vs. Mexico rivalry adds layers of emotional intensity, with both fighters fighting for their respective nations’ pride. That could be seen during the ceremonial “grand arrivals” at the MGM Grand when Berlanga walked past several dismissive Mexican fans chanting Canelo’s name all along.
Both fighters have acknowledged the mutual respect. But they know that once they step into the ring, it is a fight to the finish. While Berlanga is looking to make history, Canelo who is the clear favorite of the two, has to defend his unified IBF, WBA, WBC, and WBO titles.
