Canelo Álvarez Dominates Edgar Berlanga in Thrilling Mexican Independence Day Showdown

Mexican superstar and pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez delivered another virtuoso performance on September 14, 2024, by dropping the previously unbeaten Edgar Berlanga on his way to defending his unified WBC, WBA, and WBO Super Middleweight World Championships. The fight was the highlight of a Mexican Independence Day Weekend extravaganza presented by Canelo Promotions and headlined a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Canelo Álvarez, with a record of 62-2-2 and 39 KOs, sent his legion of fans into a frenzy early in the bout. Midway through round three, Álvarez connected on a perfect left hook that sent Berlanga (22-1, 17 KOs) to the mat. Berlanga managed to make it through the round and attempted to use his physicality against Álvarez, leading to some intense exchanges.

Reflecting on his performance, Álvarez declared, "I did good. Now what are they gonna say? They said I don't fight young fighters. They always talk, but I'm the best fighter in the world.”

Throughout the fight, Álvarez showcased his ring generalship. In the opening moments, he stepped back and evaded Berlanga's offense, setting the stage for his precise attacks. The highlight of the bout came in the third round when Álvarez used a feint to draw Berlanga in, then landed a powerful uppercut that sent his opponent to the canvas. Álvarez's relentless pressure continued throughout the fight, with effective jabs and combinations that kept Berlanga on the defensive.

As the fight progressed into the later rounds, Berlanga found moments of success, landing a few solid punches. However, Álvarez's experience and skill were too much for Berlanga to overcome. Álvarez's constant forward march and aggressive tactics earned him a unanimous decision victory, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of his generation.

The historic boxing rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico added an extra layer of excitement to the bout, making it a memorable event for boxing fans worldwide. The final moments of the twelfth round saw both fighters giving their all, but it was Álvarez who emerged victorious, much to the delight of his fans.

For those who missed this electrifying fight, the full highlights are available to watch. Experience the thrilling action and witness Canelo Álvarez's masterful performance that solidified his position as the best fighter in the world.