Canelo Alvarez scored his 62nd victory on Saturday night time, as boxing followers witnessed one other exhibiting of the tremendous middleweight king’s dominance.
Nonetheless, it wasn’t all glory and reward for the Mexican celebrity.
The pound-for-pound nice dropped Edgar Berlanga on his method with an superior shot to retain the WBO, WBC, and WBA titles amid groans over his selection of opponent.
Berlanga was in the end classed as not sufficient by many who witnessed the occasion.
Canelo, who improved to 62-2-2, 39 KOs, didn’t improve his P4P standing with one other determination over a foe merely out of his depth. The one point of interest of the match-up was an ideal left hook in spherical three that dropped Berlanga clear, however the Puerto Rican stood agency regardless of being unable to make a dent within the champion.
With the loss, Berlanga dropped to 22-1, 17 KOs, and didn’t justify his alternative.
Each fighters mentioned the conflict within the aftermath as social media grew to become a beacon of disgruntlement over Canelo’s continued avoidance of David Benavidez and David Morrell.
After his win, Canelo was defiant.
“I did good. Now, what are they going to say? They mentioned I don’t struggle younger fighters. They all the time discuss, however I’m the most effective fighter on this planet,” mentioned Canelo earlier than concerning the criticism he’s confronted because the struggle was introduced.
“I received a little bit offended together with his techniques, however I’m a Mexican man. It means lots to struggle on today. It’s an honor to characterize my nation on today. My expertise and my expertise have been completely different. It’s about laborious work and intelligence. It’s every part collectively. If in case you have expertise, you want self-discipline as nicely.”
On whether or not he’ll select a greater opponent for Could 2025, Canelo added, “Lots of people say we are able to’t, however we are able to. Las Vegas is sort of a second dwelling for Mexicans. We’re warriors, and we by no means quit. I’m going to relaxation, after which I’ll resolve what’s subsequent.”
Berlanga, who did nothing of what he mentioned pre-fight, acknowledged, “I’m upset as a result of, on the finish of the day, I’m a winner. I fought a legend tonight and did my finest to characterize Puerto Rico.
“We’re fighters and attempt to throw our opponent off their recreation. I took his finest shot, however I knew I may take his punches and return them. I may have jabbed much more, however I used to be in there with a legend.”
Learn all articles and unique interviews by Phil Jay. Be taught extra concerning the creator, skilled boxing author, and World Boxing Information Editor since 2010. Comply with on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
