Edgar Berlanga’s Comeback: Will He Shine or Sink After Missing Weight?

In the world of professional boxing, few stories capture the attention of fans as much as the rise and fall of a fighter. Edgar Berlanga, once considered a rising star in the super middleweight division, finds himself at a critical juncture in his career. As he prepares for his comeback fight against Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz, Berlanga faces scrutiny after missing weight by nearly two pounds, coming in at 169.5 pounds for a fight with a limit of 168 pounds. This incident raises questions about his readiness and commitment to reclaiming his status in the sport.

Berlanga’s upcoming bout is significant for several reasons. It marks his first fight since a unanimous decision loss to the legendary Canelo Alvarez, which left many wondering if he could compete at a high level moving forward. The pressure is palpable; Berlanga had expressed his desire to “shine like a superstar” in this fight, a sentiment that now feels more challenging given the circumstances. Missing weight not only disqualifies him from winning the WBO NABO super middleweight title but also places added pressure on him to perform well against Gonzalez-Ortiz, who successfully made weight at 167.4 pounds.

The missed weight incident has sparked a wave of criticism from fellow fighters. Caleb Plant and Richardson Hitchins publicly questioned Berlanga’s professionalism and dedication to the sport, stating that such lapses indicate a lack of seriousness in training. Plant, in particular, emphasized that missing weight is a reflection of a fighter’s commitment, suggesting that Berlanga may not have taken his preparation seriously since his setback against Canelo. These criticisms highlight the mental and physical challenges that fighters face, especially after a high-profile loss.

Berlanga’s management team continues to position him for significant exposure, as this fight is part of a co-feature on DAZN. However, the missed weight incident has raised concerns about his future in the super middleweight division. With a record of 22 wins and just one loss, including 17 knockouts, Berlanga has shown immense potential in the ring. Yet, his recent struggles have led to speculation about whether he should consider moving up to light heavyweight, where competition is fierce and unforgiving.

The ramifications of this fight extend beyond just a single bout; it is Berlanga’s last under his contract with Matchroom Boxing. As such, the stakes are high. A poor performance could jeopardize his marketability and future promotional options. Conversely, a strong showing could revitalize his career and open doors to potential matchups with top fighters like Caleb Plant and Jermall Charlo.

The boxing community is watching closely, as Berlanga’s weight issues have ignited discussions about the importance of discipline and preparation. Fighters are often under immense pressure to perform, and Berlanga’s situation serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of neglecting training and health. His comments regarding his health, citing a recent bout with the flu, have been met with skepticism, leading many to question whether he is genuinely committed to his craft.

As Berlanga steps into the ring against Gonzalez-Ortiz, the outcome of this fight could significantly impact his trajectory in the sport. A victory would not only restore some of his lost confidence but also re-establish him as a contender in the super middleweight division. However, a loss could lead to further setbacks and challenges, making it increasingly difficult for him to regain the trust of fans and promoters alike.

In conclusion, Edgar Berlanga’s comeback fight against Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz is more than just a match; it is a pivotal moment in his career. The missed weight incident has raised questions about his readiness, professionalism, and commitment to the sport. As he seeks to shine once again, Berlanga must confront the challenges ahead and prove that he is capable of reclaiming his status as a top contender in boxing. The world will be watching closely to see if he can rise to the occasion or if this will mark another step back in a once-promising career.