On September 14, 2024, boxing fans will witness a blockbuster clash as Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez defends his WBC, WBA, and WBO Super Middleweight titles against the undefeated contender Edgar Berlanga at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This event, taking place during the Mexican Independence Day weekend, promises to deliver fireworks as these two fighters meet in a highly anticipated bout.
Canelo Álvarez: A Mexican Icon
Canelo Álvarez enters this fight with an impressive record of 61 wins (39 by knockout), 2 losses, and 2 draws. He is one of the most successful boxers in the sport, having competed in various weight classes from super welterweight to light heavyweight. His recent victory over Jaime Munguia further solidified his legacy, marking his fourth consecutive win since 2022. Fighting on Mexican Independence Day has become a tradition for Canelo, and he’ll look to continue his dominance in front of a passionate crowd.
Canelo’s previous fights on this historic weekend, including his notable victories over Gennadiy Golovkin and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., have always drawn global attention. After missing the holiday last year, he is determined to bring a strong performance back to the ring this time.
Edgar Berlanga: The Undefeated Challenger
On the other side of the ring, Edgar Berlanga (22-0, 17 KOs) is an undefeated rising star with a reputation for devastating power. The Puerto Rican boxer made waves early in his career by knocking out 16 consecutive opponents in the first round. Berlanga’s path to this championship bout has been marked by grit and ambition, with his most recent victory coming via a sixth-round knockout over Padraig McCrory.
This fight represents the biggest challenge of Berlanga’s career and a golden opportunity to seize his first world title. With the iconic Puerto Rico vs. Mexico rivalry at play, Berlanga is eager to make his mark against the seasoned champion Canelo.
Fight Analysis: What to Expect
While Canelo has experience, technical mastery, and ring IQ on his side, Berlanga’s raw power and youth could make this a competitive fight. Berlanga will likely look to pressure early, hoping to test Canelo’s durability and capitalize on his punching power. Canelo, meanwhile, will rely on his experience in big fights and his ability to adapt to his opponents’ style. His defense, counterpunching, and precision will be key weapons.
Berlanga has proven that he can go the distance if necessary, but against an elite fighter like Canelo, his stamina and resilience will be truly tested. For Canelo, the challenge will be managing Berlanga’s early onslaught while waiting for opportunities to counter and dictate the pace of the fight.
Mexican Independence Day Tradition
Canelo’s fights during the Mexican Independence Day weekend have become a tradition in boxing. Similar to legends like Floyd Mayweather and Oscar De La Hoya, Canelo has used this weekend to headline some of his most significant bouts. This year is no exception, as he brings his pride, passion, and skill to Las Vegas to defend his titles.
Adding to the excitement, the fight will take place on the same night as UFC 306, which is headlined by a major bantamweight title fight. This sets up a monumental night for combat sports fans, with Las Vegas being the epicenter of two massive events.
What’s at Stake?
For Canelo, a victory would further cement his legacy as one of the greatest fighters in history. He’s been the undisputed champion at super middleweight since 2021, and another successful defense of his titles will keep him at the top of the sport.
For Berlanga, this is a career-defining moment. A victory over Canelo would instantly elevate him to superstar status and place him in the history books as the man who dethroned one of boxing’s modern legends.
How to Watch
The event will be broadcasted live on Prime Video via PBC Pay-Per-View, ensuring that fans around the world can tune in to witness this historic clash. The undercard also features a bout between Erislandy Lara and Danny Garcia, adding even more intrigue to the night’s proceedings.
As the date approaches, boxing fans are gearing up for what promises to be one of the most thrilling fights of the year. Will Canelo continue his reign of dominance, or will Berlanga pull off the upset of the year? All eyes will be on Las Vegas come September 14.
