Edgar Luis Berlanga Jr., born on May 18, 1997, in Brooklyn, New York, is an American professional boxer who has quickly risen through the ranks of the super middleweight division. Known for his explosive power and charismatic personality, Berlanga has garnered attention not only for his fighting style but also for his cultural heritage and connection to the Puerto Rican boxing community.
Edgar Luis Berlanga Jr Early Life and Amateur Career
Berlanga grew up in a large Nuyorican community, with parents who emigrated from Puerto Rico. He began boxing at the age of seven, inspired by his father and the boxing legends he admired, particularly Félix Trinidad. Berlanga amassed an impressive amateur record of 162 wins and 17 losses, showcasing his talent early on in competitions such as the US Youth National Championships, where he earned both bronze and gold medals.
Professional Career
Debut and Early Success
Berlanga made his professional debut on April 29, 2016, with a first-round knockout against Jorge Pedroza. He quickly gained notoriety for his remarkable ability to finish fights early, achieving a streak of 16 consecutive first-round knockouts. This impressive feat caught the attention of boxing media and fans alike as he approached the record for consecutive first-round KOs.
However, this streak came to an end on April 24, 2021, when Berlanga faced Demond Nicholson and won by unanimous decision after going the full distance for the first time in his career. Despite this shift in performance style, Berlanga continued to build a solid reputation in the super middleweight division.
Notable Fights and Controversies
Berlanga's career has included several noteworthy bouts. On October 9, 2021, he faced Marcelo Esteban Coceres on the undercard of Tyson Fury vs. Deontay Wilder III. Despite being knocked down in the ninth round, Berlanga secured a unanimous decision victory.
In June 2022, he was involved in a controversial incident during a fight against Roamer Alexis Angulo, where he attempted to bite Angulo's shoulder. This led to a six-month suspension and a $10,000 fine from the New York State Athletic Commission.
Recent Performance
As of February 2024, Berlanga holds an undefeated professional record of 22 wins (17 by knockout) with no losses. His most recent fight resulted in a TKO victory over Padraig McCrory on February 24, 2024.
Upcoming Challenge Against Canelo Álvarez
Berlanga is set to face one of boxing's biggest stars, Canelo Álvarez, on September 14, 2024. This matchup is highly anticipated as it represents a significant opportunity for Berlanga to establish himself among boxing's elite. He has expressed determination to make this fight a defining moment in his career: "I'm fighting a legend, and I'm going to become a legend," he stated ahead of the bout.
Edgar Luis Berlanga Jr Personal Life and Cultural Impact
Berlanga's Puerto Rican heritage plays a significant role in his identity as a fighter. He often emphasizes his pride in representing Puerto Rico in the ring and strives to connect with fans from both Puerto Rico and New York. His journey reflects not only personal ambition but also a broader narrative of cultural representation within boxing.
As he prepares for what could be a career-defining fight against Canelo Álvarez, Edgar Berlanga remains focused on improving his skills and solidifying his legacy within the sport. With aspirations to become champion and continue making history in boxing, Berlanga is poised for an exciting future ahead.
