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Eddie Hearn's recent declarations have set the super middleweight division abuzz with the prospect of an electrifying showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Edgar Berlanga. This matchup, seemingly inevitable in Hearn's view, promises to be more than just a fight; it could very well redefine the contours of the boxing landscape.
Berlanga's striking victory via a sixth-round knockout against Padraig McCrory, although commendable, has ignited discussions and debates, especially regarding the selection of McCrory as an opponent. Critics and boxing aficionados alike are questioning whether McCrory, criticized for his lack of skill comparable to the division's elite, was the right stepping stone for Berlanga on his path to a title shot.
The underlying skepticism regarding McCrory's role as a gatekeeper to Berlanga highlights broader concerns about the matchmaking process in contemporary boxing. Critics argue that facing a more formidable opponent, such as WBA 'regular' super middleweight champion David Morrell Jr., would have offered a truer test of Berlanga's readiness to take on a titan like Canelo. Morrell Jr.'s openness to the fight accentuates a missed opportunity to bolster Berlanga's claim through a battle with a more universally acclaimed adversary.
Despite this, Hearn's commendation of Berlanga's performance and his assurance of a future clash with Canelo—be it sooner or later—underscores the significant promotional support behind Berlanga. Hearn's depiction of Berlanga as a fearless contender ready to face Canelo showcases the promising nature of this potential matchup.
As the boxing world awaits further developments, the conversation about Berlanga's qualifications and the sport's matchmaking mechanisms persists. While opinions on Berlanga's victory over McCrory and its sufficiency for a title shot against Canelo vary, Hearn's determination to realize this fight signals a robust promotional effort to stage what could be a landmark event.
The anticipated bout between Canelo and Berlanga introduces an exciting chapter to the narrative of the super middleweight division. This story, interwoven with themes of legacy, skill, and promotional strategy, keeps fans and pundits on the edge of their seats, keen to see if Berlanga's journey leads to a historic encounter with Canelo Alvarez.