Edgar Berlanga, brimming with anticipation, eyes a world title showdown with Canelo Alvarez in 2024. With a sterling record of 20-0 and 16 KOs, Berlanga has inked a three-fight deal with Matchroom Boxing but his first hurdle, however, is Jason Quigley (20-2, 14 KOs), whom he must “steamroll” on June 24th before facing another yet-to-be-named opponent in December.
According to Hearn, the December matchup is the real challenge for Berlanga. The rumor mill suggests Shane Mosley Jr. (19-4, 10 KOs) as the likely opponent, who has recently impressed with a victory over Gabe Rosado Jr. Hearn might opt for an easier route for Berlanga to clinch the Canelo fight, given the hefty sum he's shelling out for the three-fight deal.
Putting Berlanga against quality 168-pounders like David Benavidez, Caleb Plant, or David Morrell Jr. might not be in Hearn’s best interest. After all, they seem to be out of Berlanga’s league, which would jeopardize the investment Hearn has made. Interestingly, Canelo demanded David Benavidez prove himself worthy of a fight, and although Benavidez emerged victorious over Plant, he still didn’t get the Canelo matchup.
If Berlanga secures a title shot with Canelo after conquering Quigley and Mosley Jr., it would appear that Canelo is intentionally avoiding Benavidez. After all, a triumph over Plant holds more weight than wins over Quigley and Mosley Jr. As the boxing world awaits the outcome of these matchups, the stakes are undeniably high for all parties involved.
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