1. Canelo Alvarez Vacates IBF Title, Set to Fight Edgar Berlanga
Canelo Alvarez, the Mexican boxing superstar, has officially confirmed his next bout. Alvarez will face undefeated contender Edgar Berlanga on September 14, coinciding with the Mexican Independence Day weekend, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This fight marks another significant chapter in the historic Mexico vs. Puerto Rico boxing rivalry.
2. The Decision to Drop the IBF Title
Canelo Alvarez has vacated his IBF super middleweight title after failing to reach an agreement with mandatory challenger William Scull. Despite efforts to negotiate, the parties were unable to keep the undisputed titles unified. This decision strips Alvarez of his undisputed status but opens the door for an exciting showdown with Berlanga.
3. Meeting the WBA’s Stipulation
With the IBF title vacated, Alvarez will now defend his WBC, WBA, and WBO super middleweight belts against Edgar Berlanga. This move satisfies the WBA’s stipulation and sets the stage for a highly anticipated fight against a rising star in Berlanga, who is eager to seize his opportunity on a grand stage.
4. The Challenge of Edgar Berlanga
Edgar Berlanga, an undefeated fighter with a record of 20-0, 16 KOs, steps up for his first world title shot. Known for his power and aggressive style, Berlanga presents a formidable challenge for Alvarez. The Puerto Rican contender has been steadily climbing the ranks, and this fight is his chance to prove himself against one of boxing’s greats.
5. Trainer Eddy Reynoso’s Perspective
Canelo’s trainer, Eddy Reynoso, is enthusiastic about the upcoming bout. “Every day, we are preparing,” Reynoso said. “We know that Berlanga is a good fighter, a strong, undefeated fighter. The confrontations between Mexico and Puerto Rico are always intense and very good boxing. It will be a very attractive fight against a great fighter in Berlanga.”
6. Manager Keith Connolly’s Excitement
Keith Connolly, Berlanga’s manager, expressed his excitement about the matchup. “I’m excited for my guy, Edgar Berlanga, to get a shot at the king of boxing, Canelo Álvarez. Canelo vs. Berlanga is renewing the Mexico vs Puerto Rico rivalry, which is the best in boxing history. September 14 is a can’t-miss event for fans around the world.”
7. Promoter Tom Brown’s Statement
Promoter Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions, highlighted the significance of the fight. “Mexican Independence Day weekend is synonymous with big Canelo Álvarez fights, and Saturday, September 14, will be the next chapter of that historic story. Canelo has long reigned as the 168-pound king and will put his three unified world titles up against a young, power-punching contender in Edgar Berlanga.”
8. Eddie Hearn’s Enthusiasm
Eddie Hearn, Chairman of Matchroom Boxing, also shared his excitement. “Edgar Berlanga’s nickname is the Chosen One. I’m so happy he got the golden pick for September 14. This is the fight we dreamed about when we signed Edgar last year. He is ready to give everything for himself, his family, and Puerto Rico. Get ready for drama in Las Vegas!”
9. The Legacy of Mexico vs. Puerto Rico Rivalry
The Canelo vs. Berlanga fight continues the storied rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico, a rivalry highlighted by historic matchups such as Salvador Sánchez vs. Wilfredo Gómez and Julio César Chávez Sr. vs. Héctor Camacho. Canelo himself has been part of this legacy, having defeated Puerto Rican Hall of Famer Miguel Cotto in a memorable bout.
10. Event Details and Ticket Information
The event, promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with Matchroom Boxing, will be available on Prime Video, DAZN.com, and PPV.com. Pre-sale tickets go live on Monday, July 29, at 10 a.m. PT through AXS.com, with the public on-sale scheduled for Tuesday, July 30, at 10 a.m. PT. Fans can expect a spectacular night of boxing on September 14, headlined by this highly anticipated showdown.
