WHO SHOULD CANELO FIGHT NEXT. EUBANK JR OR BERLANGA?
The latest buzz in the boxing world suggests that the next opponent for Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez will likely be one of two fighters: Edgar Berlanga from Puerto Rico or Chris Eubank Jr. from the UK. Unfortunately, David Benavidez isn't in the running this time. This highly anticipated match is expected to take place in September, coinciding with Mexican Independence Day.
Among boxing fans, there hasn't been overwhelming enthusiasm for either potential matchup. Chris Eubank Jr. himself has stated that he is more comfortable at middleweight, yet he would need to step up to 168 pounds to challenge Canelo, the reigning unified super middleweight champion. Despite his confidence, Eubank Jr. hasn't done much to earn a shot at Canelo, and it's widely believed that he wouldn't pose a significant threat. With a record of 33-3 and 24 knockouts, Eubank Jr. is known for his resilience but often fights in bursts, lacking consistent elite-level power. Many predict a straightforward win for Canelo if this bout happens, which could impact pay-per-view sales.
On the other hand, Edgar Berlanga, a 27-year-old undefeated fighter from Puerto Rico, might bring a bit more excitement to the ring. Berlanga is naturally a 168-pounder and boasts impressive punching power, making him a more fitting contender for Canelo. Although Berlanga started his career with 16 consecutive knockouts, his more recent fights have seen fewer stoppages as his competition level increased. Nonetheless, Berlanga's last victory was a notable knockout against Padraig McCrory, reigniting interest in his potential.
The Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalry adds another layer of intrigue to a possible Berlanga vs. Canelo fight. With a record of 22-0 and 17 knockouts, Berlanga believes he's ready for the big stage. He recently expressed his confidence in an interview with Cigar Talk, stating, "I’m about to make that bag, and we’re going to beat him. It’s legacy for me. It’s Puerto Rico versus Mexico. Everybody keeps talking about that fight. Now, I feel it’s time for me to go to that level. I know he has fought big punchers and everybody, but I feel with me, it’s something different. I elevate with the competition. My IQ goes through the roof. I’m a big draw. I know a lot of people love knockouts, and that’s what I give.”
While neither Eubank Jr. nor Berlanga has fully convinced fans they are the rightful next opponent for Canelo, Berlanga's youthful energy and knockout potential seem to offer more appeal. So, who will it be? Stay tuned to Finesse Boxing for all the latest updates and expert analysis on this potential showdown!
