Tale of the Tape: Canelo Álvarez vs. Edgar Berlanga
Here, we look at how Canelo Álvarez, one of the world's most popular fighters, stacks up against title challenger Edgar Berlanga ahead of Saturday's fight for the super middleweight championship. Odds courtesy of theScore Bet.
It's been five months since Canelo Álvarez last defended his super middleweight titles, and the wrecking ball known as "Cinnamon" is ready to step into the ring once again.
After handing Jaime Munguia his first loss in May, Álvarez's next challenge comes in the form of undefeated knockout specialist Edgar Berlanga, a Puerto Rican sensation who began his professional career with 16 straight first-round knockouts.
Berlanga has become more of a polished fighter over his last six fights as his competition has stiffened, but his power is undeniable and could be a game-changer against the champion Álvarez.
"100%," Berlanga said recently when asked by DAZN if he is the hardest puncher Canelo has ever faced.
While Berlanga possesses terrifying power, he lacks the experience and resume of Álvarez. One of boxing's most decorated fighters, Álvarez continues to perform well into his mid-30s.
Since losing a May 2022 light heavyweight contest to Dmitry Bivol, Álvarez has won four consecutive fights against Gennady Golovkin, John Ryder, Jermell Charlo, and Munguia. He completely overmatched Charlo over 12 rounds and weathered an early storm from Munguia before settling in for a unanimous decision victory.
The champion remains a rabid body puncher and is one of boxing's smartest fighters. That could be problematic for the less-experienced Berlanga, who's had mental lapses against seasoned fighters.
The 27-year-old Brooklyn native struggled against veteran Marcelo Esteban Coceres in October 2021, and he became so frustrated against Roamer Alexis Angulo in June 2022 that he attempted to bite his opponent's shoulder. Berlanga won the fight but was later suspended for six months for the incident.
Álvarez enters the fight believing his experience and intellect are already too much for Berlanga to handle.
"No, no chance," Canelo replied during a Premier Boxing Champions promotional video when asked if there's a chance Berlanga beats him.
"The experience I have, the intelligence, my boxing ability. I've already won Sept. 14."
Will Canelo reign supreme, potentially setting up a superfight with David Benavidez? Or will Berlanga take his first step toward super middleweight dominance with an upset victory over the boxing legend?
We'll find out this Saturday in Las Vegas when Mexico battles Puerto Rico. Let's get it on!