1. Hearn’s Reluctance: Canelo vs. Eubank Jr.
At the final press conference ahead of the Anthony Joshua vs. Otto Wallin heavyweight contest, Eddie Hearn expressed his reservations about Canelo Alvarez defending his undisputed super middleweight title against Chris Eubank Jr. in September. The Matchroom promoter doesn’t see the appeal in the fight and has a different contender in mind.
2. Berlanga in the Spotlight
Hearn is advocating for Canelo (61-2-2, 39 KOs) to face his WBA 168-lb mandatory challenger, Edgar Berlanga (22-0, 17 KOs). He believes a Canelo-Berlanga match would be a hit in the U.S. due to the historic Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalry. However, there are concerns about Berlanga’s credentials, given his track record of facing primarily low-level opponents.
3. Criticism of Berlanga’s Opposition
Berlanga has faced criticism for his lack of high-caliber competition. Hardcore boxing fans see him as a hype job, and Hearn’s careful matchmaking hasn’t helped change this perception. Fights against relatively unknown British fighters, Padraig McCrory and Jason Quigley, have done little to boost Berlanga’s popularity stateside.
4. The Reality Check for Hearn
Hearn’s UK-based perspective may obscure the reality that a Canelo vs. Berlanga fight would face heavy criticism in the U.S. for its lack of competitive intrigue. The hardcore fan base views Berlanga as unproven and unworthy of a bout with Canelo, a sentiment that Hearn might not fully grasp.
5. Hearn’s Defense of Berlanga
Hearn argues that Berlanga’s mandatory status and the potential for a Mexico vs. Puerto Rico showdown make the fight marketable. “Edgar Berlanga brings a different test to Canelo Alvarez,” Hearn said, suggesting that Berlanga’s power and size could make for an exciting matchup.
6. Misguided Matchmaking
Critics argue that Hearn should have matched Berlanga against more formidable opponents to build his reputation. Potential fights against David Morrell, Caleb Plant, or David Benavidez would have provided tougher tests and increased Berlanga’s credibility. Instead, Berlanga’s current trajectory leaves him perceived as average.
7. Eubank Jr.’s Challenge
Reacting to the potential Canelo vs. Eubank Jr. fight, Hearn said, “No, not really,” when asked if it would be a big fight in the U.S. He pointed out Eubank Jr.’s vulnerabilities, noting his stoppage by Liam Smith and suggesting that a matchup with welterweight Conor Benn would be more competitive.
8. Canelo’s Next Steps
Canelo needs a tune-up fight in September to prepare for a potential showdown with Terence Crawford in early 2025. While Hearn champions Berlanga, others argue that Berlanga’s style doesn’t provide the right preparation for Crawford. A fight against David Benavidez would be more appropriate, though challenging to arrange.
9. Berlanga’s Future Path
To boost Berlanga’s profile, Hearn should consider pitting him against David Morrell. A strong performance or even a competitive loss against a top contender could elevate Berlanga’s standing. If Berlanga fails to impress, Hearn might need to reconsider his long-term plans for the fighter.
10. The Broader Implications
Whoever Canelo fights next, the decision will be scrutinized. A matchup with a strong contender like Morrell or Benavidez would bolster Canelo’s legacy. However, taking on lesser-known opponents like Berlanga risks criticism and diminishing the perceived value of his defenses.
