Edgar Berlanga's upcoming match has sparked mixed reactions in the boxing community. Scheduled to fight Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz on March 15 at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida, this bout comes under scrutiny due to Gonzalez-Ortiz's long absence from the ring. The 35-year-old fighter returned after a nearly decade-long hiatus and secured two victories. Meanwhile, former super middleweight champion Caleb Plant voiced his concerns over Berlanga's choice of opponent. Plant, who also faced Canelo Alvarez, criticized the decision, questioning the legitimacy of such a matchup. Despite the criticism, Berlanga's manager Keith Connolly explained that this fight is part of a larger strategy aimed at securing bigger opportunities for Berlanga later this summer.
The Debate Over Berlanga's Matchup
Opinions are divided regarding Edgar Berlanga's next opponent, Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz. After a prolonged absence from professional boxing, Gonzalez-Ortiz made his return with two relatively easy wins. This has led many fans and commentators to question the wisdom behind Berlanga's team choosing such an opponent. Critics argue that facing someone with limited recent experience does not provide a true test of Berlanga's skills, especially following his significant loss to Saul "Canelo" Alvarez. However, some supporters believe that this could be a strategic move to ensure a win and boost confidence before tackling more formidable adversaries.
Caleb Plant, a notable figure in the boxing world, was particularly vocal about his dissatisfaction. He pointed out that Gonzalez-Ortiz had not fought for almost ten years, raising doubts about the fairness and competitive nature of the bout. Plant's comments reflect a broader concern among fans who feel that Berlanga should face tougher competition to prove his worth in the super middleweight division. Yet, it is clear that Berlanga's team sees this as a stepping stone rather than a final destination. They aim to position Berlanga for more significant challenges down the line, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum and avoiding any unnecessary risks.
A Strategic Move for Future Opportunities
Beyond the immediate controversy surrounding the matchup, Berlanga's team views this fight as part of a broader plan. Manager Keith Connolly revealed that there are potential big fights on the horizon for Berlanga, possibly involving higher-profile opponents like Caleb Plant. By opting for a less challenging opponent now, they hope to secure a smoother path toward these more lucrative and prestigious bouts. This approach underscores the strategic thinking involved in managing a boxer's career, balancing short-term wins with long-term goals.
Connolly's decision to schedule this particular fight stems from a desire to create opportunities for Berlanga in the coming months. He noted that while Berlanga could have headlined an event in March, they chose a smaller co-main event to pave the way for a much larger fight this summer. This strategy reflects the complex dynamics of boxing promotions, where each match must be carefully considered to maximize future prospects. For Berlanga, this means proving himself against Gonzalez-Ortiz without any slip-ups, ensuring he remains in contention for more high-stakes matches. As the boxing world watches closely, the outcome of this fight will undoubtedly influence Berlanga's trajectory in the sport.