Edgar Berlanga's Return: A Quest for Redemption After Canelo Defeat

Edgar Berlanga, once celebrated for his extraordinary streak of first-round knockouts, is set to re-enter the ring on March 15, 2025, aiming to reassert his position in the super-middleweight division. His upcoming bout against the undefeated Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz marks his first appearance since a unanimous decision loss to Canelo Alvarez in September 2024.

The Meteoric Rise: A Streak of First-Round Knockouts

Berlanga's early professional career was nothing short of sensational. Debuting in 2016, he amassed a remarkable 16 consecutive first-round knockouts, capturing the attention of boxing enthusiasts and media alike. This unprecedented streak showcased his formidable power and positioned him as a rising star in the super-middleweight category. The pinnacle of Berlanga's career came in September 2024 when he faced the legendary Canelo Alvarez for the unified WBC, WBA, and WBO super-middleweight titles. Despite his valiant effort, Berlanga was outclassed by Alvarez's experience and skill, suffering a knockdown in the third round and ultimately losing by unanimous decision. The judges scored the bout 117-110, 118-109, and 118-109 in favor of Alvarez.

The Comeback Fight: Berlanga vs. Gonzalez-Ortiz

Determined to rebound from his first professional loss, Berlanga (22-1, 17 KOs) is scheduled to fight Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz (20-0-1, 16 KOs) on March 15 at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. Gonzalez-Ortiz, a 35-year-old Puerto Rican, returned to boxing in 2024 after a decade-long hiatus, securing two knockout victories. This matchup offers Berlanga an opportunity to regain his standing in the division, while Gonzalez-Ortiz aims to make a significant impact in his comeback.

Strategic Rebuilding: Berlanga's Path Forward

Berlanga's management has adopted a cautious approach following the loss to Alvarez. By facing Gonzalez-Ortiz, they intend to rebuild his confidence and ring experience before matching him against top-tier opponents. A convincing victory could pave the way for high-profile fights, potentially leading to another title shot in the future.

Edgar Berlanga's journey from a knockout sensation to facing adversity exemplifies the unpredictable nature of boxing. His upcoming fight against Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz is more than just a return to the ring; it's a pivotal moment that will define his resilience and ability to adapt. As Berlanga seeks to reestablish himself as a formidable force in the super-middleweight division, the boxing world will be watching closely to see if "The Chosen One" can rise again.