Saul “Canelo” Álvarez (60-2-2, 39 KOs), boxing’s biggest star, steps back into the ring against undefeated Edgar “The Chosen One” Berlanga (22-0, 17 KOs) in a September showdown that pits experience against explosive youth.
✔ Canelo’s Mastery: The 34-year-old legend’s counterpunching and body attack remain elite—but does he still have the reflexes to handle Berlanga’s aggression?
✔ Berlanga’s Rise: The 27-year-old Puerto Rican-American brawler has flattened 17 opponents in the first round. Can he land his fight-ending power on Canelo’s granite chin?
✔ The X-Factor: Berlanga’s new trainer, Marc Ramsay (who guided Artur Beterbiev), could bring a smarter game plan.
Why This Fight Matters
- Legacy Check: If Canelo loses, it could signal a passing of the torch.
- New York’s Hype Machine: Berlanga’s hometown crowd at Madison Square Garden will be electric.
- Business Implications: A Berlanga win could make him the sport’s next PPV star.
Quote from Canelo: “I respect him, but I’ve faced bigger punchers. This is my division.”
Berlanga’s Warning: “I’m not here to survive. I’m here to take his head off.”
The Undercard Drama
- Co-Main Event: A lightweight title eliminator between two unbeaten prospects.
- Controversy: Fans complain the PPV price ($89.99) is too steep for a non-title bout.
Prediction: Will Experience or Power Win?
🔮 Boxing Analysts Split:
- 60% favor Canelo by late stoppage (body shots wear Berlanga down).
- 40% back Berlanga’s early-round KO dream (if he corners Canelo).