Las Vegas is gearing up for one of the most anticipated boxing events of the year as Saul “Canelo” Alvarez is set to fight Edgar Berlanga on September 14 at the T-Mobile Arena. This match is not just a fight; it’s a continuation of the historic boxing rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico, perfectly timed for Mexican Independence Day weekend.
Mexico’s own Alvarez (61-2-2, 39 KOs), a unified super middleweight champion and one of boxing’s top pound-for-pound fighters, has chosen Puerto Rican powerhouse Berlanga (22-0, 17 KOs) as his next opponent. This decision comes after considering multiple candidates, including the eager WBC mandatory challenger David Benavidez and William Scull among others. Alvarez, a veteran in the ring at 34, looks to bolster his legacy against the rising star Berlanga, who is the current WBA No. 1-ranked mandatory challenger.
Alvarez expressed his enthusiasm for the bout, highlighting the storied rivalry that has delivered unforgettable matches filled with passion and skill. “I am proud to contribute to this legacy,” Alvarez stated. “Facing an opponent like Edgar Berlanga adds even more excitement and meaning to this event.”
Critics have voiced concerns over Alvarez avoiding a match with Benavidez and have questioned Berlanga’s readiness to face a fighter of Alvarez’s caliber. Despite these criticisms, Berlanga’s recent performances, including a remarkable sixth-round knockout of Padraig McCrory in February, showcase his readiness and power. Berlanga’s journey started with an astonishing 16 consecutive first-round knockouts, a testament to his formidable power in the ring.
Berlanga, embracing the gravity of the opportunity, is confident in his ability to make a statement on fight night. “This is the opportunity of a lifetime,” said Berlanga. “I deserve to be here, and I’m going to shock the world by knocking out Canelo Álvarez. I will prove that my Puerto Rican heritage and legacy of champions from Gomez to Trinidad to Cotto, and now to Berlanga, surpasses Mexican boxing.”
The event, which will be headlined by the Alvarez vs. Berlanga fight, promises to be a significant draw, continuing the long-standing tradition of memorable Independence Day weekend fights in Las Vegas. The co-main event will feature Cuba’s Erislandy Lara defending his middleweight title against Puerto Rican former two-division titleholder Danny Swift in what promises to be a thrilling 12-round contest.
For tickets and more detailed information about the Alvarez vs. Berlanga fight, visit Viva Houston’s dedicated coverage.
