Edgar Berlanga is unabashedly fervent in his aspiration to be recognized as a star in the boxing world, particularly as he prepares to face Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz on March 15th. Berlanga’s ambitions stretch far beyond this fight; they encapsulate a desire to enter free agency and target high-profile opponents in the super middleweight category. His bout is not just another fight—it represents a pivotal moment in his career, taking place as the lead supporting event for the Austin Williams vs. Patrice Volny match at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida.
For Berlanga, this fight serves as the grand finale of his contract with Matchroom, a relationship he seems eager to leave behind in search of greener pastures. He has made it explicitly clear that he wants to negotiate with a promoter and network that promises substantial financial growth. This quest for bigger paydays underscores a fundamental aspect of Berlanga’s psyche: an almost palpable hunger for recognition and financial success that often goes hand in hand in the sport.
The Canelo Wake-Up Call
It’s difficult to overlook the shadow of his recent loss to Canelo Alvarez, a bout that many felt was a harsh but necessary wake-up call. Despite the high stakes leading into that fight, Berlanga suffered a resounding defeat with scorecards reading 118-109, 117-110, and 118-109 against a fighter of Canelo’s caliber, who dominated the bout without needing to finish him off. The critics pointed out that Berlanga seemed to lose steam as the match progressed, leading to speculation that Canelo was reluctant to knock him out, perhaps out of concern over public perception and backlash for picking such an uneven matchup.
Berlanga himself has acknowledged the importance of bouncing back strong—not just in terms of performance but also in public perception. It’s interesting to note how critical his awareness of promotional dynamics is; he astutely observes how his own bargaining power within the boxing industry is directly correlated with his performance inside the ring.
The Importance of Venue and Fan Base
Berlanga’s comments on the choice of venue for his upcoming fight reveal much about his ambitions and understanding of the business side of boxing. He expressed disappointment at being placed in a venue that only seats 2,000, arguing that he could easily sell out larger arenas. His assertion that he could attract 5,000 to 6,000 fans just outside the venue isn’t mere bravado; it showcases his recognition of his fan base and marketability.
Yet, this raises questions about Matchroom’s decision-making process. With Berlanga coming off a lackluster performance and facing a relatively unknown opponent in Gonzalez-Ortiz, it might seem prudent to opt for a smaller venue. Still, Berlanga’s insistence on being treated like the star he aims to be reflects a deeper frustration with promotional choices that seem to be based on short-term gain rather than nurturing long-term relationships.
Taking Control of His Career
The narrative surrounding Berlanga’s refusal to re-sign with Matchroom presents a fascinating case of autonomy in boxing. In an era where many fighters are tethered to promotional entities that dictate their paths, Berlanga’s insistence on being his own boss echoes the journeys of established names like Canelo Alvarez, Floyd Mayweather, and Gervonta Davis. He implies that to secure a prosperous future, he must reinstate control over his career that has largely been dictated by others.
Berlanga’s determination to deliver a stirring performance against Gonzalez-Ortiz is not just a fight to him; it is a critical step in his mission to re-establish himself following a disheartening loss. He recognizes that success in this bout is crucial for his aspirations of headlining major cards in the future and further positioning himself among the sport’s elite. “I’ve got to handle my business, look like a star, and catch a beautiful knockout,” he passionately stated as he gears up for what could be a defining moment in his career.
Berlanga is not merely participating in this fight; he is framing it as a launchpad for greater opportunities, hoping to carve out a legacy worthy of the heavyweight names that dominate conversation in the boxing world.
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