Edgar Berlanga Wants Canelo Alvarez – ‘I’ve Got To Do My Thing’

Edgar Berlanga is targeting a fight against Canelo Alvarez provided he beats Padraig McCrory on February 24.
Berlanga is undefeated with a record of 21-0, which includes 16 wins by knockout. He is an American, which fits in line with Canelo’s recent announcement that his next fight is against an American. Reports initially put Jermall Charlo as the favourite, only for the American to state he has no confirmation over whether he will face Alvarez.
Canelo then ruled out a fight with Terence Crawford, saying he would get no credit for a win. That left fans wondering whether it would be David Benavidez. But the Mexican’s promoter has stated that Canelo has no intention of fighting him. That has left Berlanga as a possible alternative, and it is a fight that he wants.
Berlanga On Canelo
“I got to really perform my a** off in this fight. I’ve got to make a statement. I’ve got to do my thing in this fight and really look phenomenal, and I feel that right there should be an opener for a fight with Canelo in 2024. I know he [Canelo] has all the titles, but I’m young.
“One thing I have is an Island behind me. I got Puerto Rico. So, I think it’s based on how I look in my next fight [against 35-year-old Padraig McCrory]. I’m looking forward to dominating this dude, beating him up, and doing my thing, and eventually, that’ll open up doors for us in 2024 against Canelo Alvarez,” Berlanga said
Will It Happen?
A fight is possible, given that Berlanga fights on DAZN. Alvarez has fought on the platform previously, showing he can work with other networks. Although Alvarez has two fights left on his PBC deal, he does have enough pulling power to work his way around that or do a co-promotional deal.
But even if that fight were to go ahead, it would unlikely happen on May 4 on Cinco De Mayo Weekend. That would give Berlanga nine weeks to get ready, which is a risk if he does have a tough fight. Although he would be in shape, facing Alvarez is the pinnacle of the sport, showing he cannot afford to take any risks.
In addition, boxing fans are still wanting to see the Benavidez fight. WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman has said that Benavidez will be ordered as the mandatory in March. That will pressure Canelo to fight him or relinquish his belt, which would play into the narrative that he was ducking the Mexican Monster.
Reports do indicate Benavidez may move to 175 pounds if he cannot get the Canelo fight. Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev face off for the Undisputed Light Heavyweight Title on June 1. Benavidez could then target the winner for a chance to win all the belts at 175, giving him more of a reason to fight Alvarez. But Berlanga is ready to step in if needed.
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