Canelo Alvarez vs. Edgar Berlanga: Clash of Power on Mexican Independence Day Weekend

The highly anticipated boxing match between Canelo Alvarez and Edgar Berlanga is not just a battle between two skilled fighters—it’s also a fight that brings to life the fierce rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico in the world of boxing. This showdown, scheduled for 12 rounds in the super middleweight division, is packed with the potential for fireworks, with both boxers known for their knockout power.

As the weekend approaches, fans are eager to see if Canelo, now 34 years old, still has the knockout punch that made him famous. It’s been nearly three years since Alvarez last secured a knockout, and there’s growing speculation about whether age has taken away some of the power that earned him a staggering 39 knockouts in his 61 wins (61-2-2).

For Alvarez, this fight is personal. He’s eager to prove that he hasn’t lost his edge and that he’s still capable of delivering that signature knockout. “I’ve prepared for the knockout,’’ Alvarez said in the lead-up to the fight. “I love the feeling of a knockout, and I’m going to do my best to get it done.’’

Alvarez will need to summon all his experience and skill when he faces Berlanga, a dangerous opponent with knockout power of his own. The 26-year-old Berlanga started his career by knocking out his first 16 opponents in the first round, showcasing his raw power and aggressive style. Though his knockout streak slowed down—he won five fights by unanimous decision after that—Berlanga got back to his knockout ways in his most recent fight, signaling that he’s ready to bring the heat to Canelo on Saturday night.

Round-by-Round Breakdown:

Round 1: Size Matters?

As the fight begins, the size difference between the two fighters is clear. Berlanga stands tall at 6'1", while Alvarez measures in at 5'7 ½". It’s a significant height and reach advantage for Berlanga, but in the opening minutes, he doesn’t fully capitalize on it. Canelo, known for his precision and technique, begins by stalking Berlanga around the ring, throwing measured jabs and slowly gaining control of the pace.

Berlanga, trying to impose himself early, throws a few jabs of his own but finds Canelo pushing forward with more confidence. Although both men feel each other out, Canelo does enough to edge out the round. The crowd is already chanting “Canelo, Canelo!” and the Mexican fighter is feeding off the energy. **Score: Canelo 10, Berlanga 9.**

Round 4: Testing the Power

By the fourth round, the fight is heating up. Canelo gets hit with a solid punch from Berlanga but doesn’t seem fazed. He keeps pressing forward, clearly determined to deliver an exciting performance for his fans. Berlanga is throwing back but isn’t making full use of his size advantage, allowing Canelo to close the distance and deliver hard shots.

At this point, it’s clear that Canelo’s speed, even at 34, is still top-notch. He digs a left hook into Berlanga’s body, showing his ability to target weak spots and slow down his opponent. Berlanga needs to find a way to use his reach more effectively, but for now, Canelo continues to look sharp. **Score: Canelo 39, Berlanga 36.

Round 5: Trash Talk and Emotions Running High

As round five begins, things get even more intense. Both fighters are talking trash in the ring, and it’s clear that emotions are running high. The referee has to step in several times to separate them, even taking a spill in the process. Canelo looks more fired up than Berlanga, and his emotions seem to be fueling his aggression.

Canelo lands a powerful uppercut, and although Berlanga shakes it off, the hit clearly has an impact. Berlanga fires back with a strong right hand, but it doesn’t seem to slow Canelo’s momentum. This round is all about raw emotion, and Canelo’s aggression is winning him the edge. **Score: Canelo 49, Berlanga 45.

Round 6: Berlanga on the Defensive

By round six, Berlanga is still mostly fighting on the defensive. Canelo continues to press the action, throwing combinations that keep Berlanga on his back foot. The Puerto Rican fighter does manage to connect with a few good jabs, but he’s still not using his reach to full effect. He finds himself on the ropes multiple times, allowing Canelo to control the ring.

However, Berlanga lands a big right hand that gives him a glimmer of hope, but Canelo responds just as quickly, showing why he’s one of the best in the world. The crowd continues to chant “Canelo! Canelo!” as the fight intensifies, and it’s clear that the momentum is still in Alvarez’s favor. **Score: Canelo 59, Berlanga 54.**

A Battle to Remember

This fight is more than just a contest between two fighters—it’s a showcase of national pride, skill, and raw power. Both Alvarez and Berlanga are carrying the weight of their countries on their shoulders, and the tension in the air is palpable. As the fight heads into the later rounds, fans will be on the edge of their seats, waiting to see if Canelo can deliver the knockout he promised, or if Berlanga will rise to the occasion and prove that his power is a match for Alvarez’s experience.

No matter how this fight ends, it’s sure to be a memorable clash, filled with drama, intensity, and the unmistakable spirit of Mexican Independence Day weekend.