In the high-stakes world of professional boxing, words can pack just as much of a punch as fists. The latest verbal sparring match has unfolded between rising star Edgar Berlanga and Mexican boxing legend Canelo Álvarez. After Canelo made a scathing remark about Berlanga’s workout videos, dismissing his training efforts by saying “he punches like a child,” Berlanga didn’t hold back in responding. In a sport where reputation, confidence, and perception matter as much as power and technique, this feud has sparked heated discussion within the boxing community, pitting the young up-and-comer against one of the sport’s greatest fighters.
The Background: Berlanga’s Rapid Rise
Edgar Berlanga, the undefeated Puerto Rican-American super middleweight, has built a name for himself as one of boxing’s most exciting prospects. Known for his ferocious punching power, Berlanga made headlines by knocking out each of his first 16 opponents in the first round. This remarkable streak earned him a reputation as a knockout artist, and boxing fans have been eagerly watching his ascent in the sport.
Despite a few more recent performances that went the distance, Berlanga remains a top contender in the super middleweight division. His combination of raw power, charisma, and determination has drawn comparisons to some of the sport’s biggest names. As he continues to improve and work his way up the ranks, Berlanga has been keen to showcase his progress and skills through social media, posting workout videos that offer fans a glimpse into his intense training regime.
Canelo’s Criticism: “He Punches Like a Child”
Canelo Álvarez, the undisputed super middleweight champion and one of boxing’s most accomplished fighters, has never been one to shy away from speaking his mind. Known for his precision, power, and ring intelligence, Canelo has established himself as one of the sport’s greatest modern champions, with a career spanning multiple weight classes and countless titles. His dominance in the super middleweight division has made him the man to beat for fighters like Berlanga, who hope to challenge him someday.
In an interview ahead of his latest title defense, Canelo was asked about the young prospects in his division and, specifically, about Edgar Berlanga’s training videos. When asked what he thought of Berlanga’s workouts, Canelo reportedly scoffed and said, “He punches like a child.” The remark quickly spread across social media, causing an uproar among boxing fans and drawing attention to the brewing tension between the two fighters.
Canelo’s comment was seen by many as a direct challenge to Berlanga’s credibility as a contender. While Berlanga’s knockout power is widely acknowledged, Canelo’s critique seemed to suggest that Berlanga’s form and technique left much to be desired. In the world of boxing, where confidence and public perception are crucial, such a comment from a fighter of Canelo’s stature can have serious implications for a rising star’s reputation.
Berlanga’s Response: “I’ll Show Him Who Hits Like a Child”
It didn’t take long for Edgar Berlanga to respond to Canelo’s criticism. In a fiery interview, Berlanga addressed the remarks head-on, making it clear that he wouldn’t let the Mexican champion’s words go unanswered. “I don’t know what Canelo is seeing in my videos, but if he thinks I punch like a child, he’s in for a surprise,” Berlanga said. “I respect what he’s done in the sport, but at the end of the day, this is boxing. If he wants to talk about my punches, I’m ready to show him in the ring who really hits like a child.”
Berlanga’s response was filled with confidence, signaling that he has no intention of backing down from a future showdown with Canelo. While the two fighters have not yet faced each other, Berlanga’s comments suggest that he is positioning himself for a potential bout with the reigning champion. “I’m putting in the work every day, improving my technique, my footwork, and my power,” Berlanga said. “I’m coming for that top spot, and if Canelo’s in the way, I’ll be ready.”
The back-and-forth between Berlanga and Canelo has only fueled speculation about a future matchup between the two. With Berlanga rapidly climbing the ranks and Canelo continuing to dominate the division, fans are eager to see if the young prospect will one day get his chance to step into the ring with the Mexican legend.
The Impact on Berlanga’s Career
While Berlanga has responded confidently to Canelo’s criticism, the exchange has placed additional pressure on the young fighter to prove himself in the ring. Canelo’s words may have stung, but they also present an opportunity for Berlanga to demonstrate his growth as a fighter and prove that he’s more than just a knockout artist. Many boxing analysts believe that Berlanga’s recent fights, which went the distance, showed his ability to adapt and use strategy rather than relying solely on his power.
However, in order to truly silence his critics—Canelo included—Berlanga will need to continue refining his technique and proving that he belongs in the conversation with the best fighters in the division. His response to Canelo’s comments has only increased the anticipation for his upcoming fights, with fans eager to see if Berlanga can live up to the hype and deliver the kind of performances that would make a future fight with Canelo a reality.
Canelo vs. Berlanga: A Future Clash?
The verbal exchange between Canelo and Berlanga has sparked speculation about whether the two fighters will eventually meet in the ring. While Berlanga is still developing as a fighter, a matchup with Canelo could become a reality in the near future if Berlanga continues to rise through the ranks. Such a fight would be a blockbuster event, pitting the young knockout artist against the seasoned champion.
For Berlanga, a fight with Canelo would represent the ultimate test of his abilities. Canelo, with his vast experience and tactical brilliance, has faced and defeated some of the best fighters in the world. Berlanga, meanwhile, is still refining his craft and learning the nuances of elite-level boxing. However, his power and raw potential make him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division, and a fight with Canelo could be a career-defining moment.
The Verdict: A Battle of Words—and Punches—Looms
As the tension between Canelo Álvarez and Edgar Berlanga continues to build, the boxing world is watching closely to see how the drama unfolds. Canelo’s comment that Berlanga “punches like a child” has added fuel to the fire, and Berlanga’s confident response shows that he’s ready to take on all challengers, including the reigning champion. Whether or not this war of words leads to a future fight remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: both fighters have the power and skill to make it an unforgettable clash.
For now, Berlanga will continue honing his skills and proving his worth in the ring, while Canelo remains the undisputed king of the super middleweight division. But if their paths do cross, it’s sure to be a fight that boxing fans won’t want to miss.