Promoter Eddie Hearn’s Hope for Edgar Berlanga’s Future
Promoter Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing is keen to retain the services of super middleweight contender Edgar Berlanga (22-1, 17 KOs) after he fulfills his current contract. Berlanga is set to face Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz (20-0-1, 16 KOs) on Saturday, March 15th, at the Caribe Royale Orlando in Orlando, Florida, as the co-feature on the Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams vs. Patrice Volny card. The event will be broadcast live on DAZN. Despite Berlanga’s dissatisfaction with being on the undercard, Hearn has been working to ensure that the fighter’s next moves align with his career goals.
Behind the Scenes: Berlanga’s Contract and Aspirations
Berlanga, who is known for his explosive style and quick knockouts, has expressed his discontent with being on the undercard. According to Manouk Akopyan, Berlanga is unhappy with this arrangement. Hearn, however, explains that he attempted to secure a headliner spot for Berlanga in Puerto Rico. He discussed the idea with DAZN, but the timing did not align, and they had to revert to the original contract, which includes a provision for a comeback fight on an undercard. Hearn emphasizes that they are fulfilling their contractual obligations rather than withholding opportunities.
Free Agency and Potential Matchups
Upon completing his contract, Berlanga will become a free agent, and Hearn is hopeful that he will stay with Matchroom Boxing. Hearn has proposed two significant matchups for Berlanga if he decides to remain with the company: a fight against current WBA, IBF, and WBC super middleweight champion Caleb Plant or former WBC middleweight champion Jermall Charlo. However, Berlanga has his own aspirations, particularly a high-profile bout against Jaime Munguia on pay-per-view. Berlanga sees this matchup as a clash between Mexico and Puerto Rico and believes a win over Munguia could pave the way for a rematch with Canelo Alvarez, whom he lost to by unanimous decision in September 2023. The lucrative nature of the Canelo fight, where Berlanga earned a reported $10 million, makes a rematch an enticing prospect.
Hearn’s Vision for Berlanga’s Career
Hearn is not only focused on the immediate future but has a broader vision for Berlanga’s career. He aims to keep ‘The Chosen One’ Berlanga, 27, with Matchroom for the remainder of his boxing journey. Hearn believes in Berlanga’s potential and the value he brings to the sport. "He is a free agent after this fight. I hope he spends the rest of his career with Matchroom," Hearn stated to the media. "All we’re doing is honoring our contract instead of not giving him a fight. He’s going to go in and hopefully look good in Orlando, and then we’re going to put him in hopefully with Caleb Plant or [Jermall] Charlo. He’s [Berlanga] a big name, he’s a great fighter and I think he has a huge amount to give to the sport."
Alternative Paths: Berlanga’s Options
While Hearn is optimistic about keeping Berlanga, the fighter has other options. One possibility is a move to the new boxing league under the guidance of Turki Alalshikh. Alalshikh’s league has the potential to offer Berlanga significant opportunities and financial incentives. Berlanga’s decision will hinge on a variety of factors, including the potential for high-profile matchups, financial rewards, and the overall vision for his career. Hearn understands the complexity of the situation and is prepared to respect Berlanga’s choice, whatever it may be.
Looking Forward: Berlanga’s Next Moves
As Berlanga prepares for his fight against Gonzalez-Ortiz, the boxing world watches with anticipation. The outcome of this bout could significantly influence his next steps and the direction of his career. Hearn is confident that a strong performance will open doors to bigger and more lucrative fights, whether Berlanga stays with Matchroom or explores other avenues. The future of ‘The Chosen One’ is uncertain but filled with potential, and boxing fans are eager to see where his journey takes him next.
