Edgar Berlanga’s recent criticism of promoter Eddie Hearn has shone a spotlight on the complexities of modern boxing promotion and relationships between fighters and their promoters. Berlanga, a super middleweight contender with an impressive record of 22 wins, 1 loss, and 17 knockouts, feels gravely let down by his promoter’s decisions, particularly regarding potential matchups that he believes could have propelled his career into the stratosphere. His frustrations culminate in his contention that Hearn’s business approach has been flawed, prioritizing managerial control over Berlanga’s career aspirations.
Berlanga’s call-out to Hearn isn’t just about dissatisfaction; it portends a shift in mentality that many fighters are beginning to adopt. Fighter autonomy is becoming an ever-increasing topic in boxing circles. This involves not merely accepting the structures laid out by promoters but breaking free from them to pursue individual goals—something Berlanga is adamantly advocating for. His conviction underscores a shifting tide where fighters may increasingly leverage their marketability to demand the types of fights that can cement their place in the boxing pantheon.
A Missed Opportunity Against William Scull
One critical juncture that Berlanga highlights is the missed opportunity to fight IBF super middleweight champion William Scull. He argues that if Hearn had negotiated effectively, he could have claimed the title and potentially set up a rematch against the sport’s current superstar, Canelo Alvarez. Berlanga believes that he holds enough appeal to make that rematch viable and lucrative, particularly given the lucrative payday he received in their last encounter—a staggering $10 million.
However, there is something of a naivete in Berlanga’s approach when he insists that Hearn should have made that fight happen. He paints himself as a victim of circumstance rather than engaging in the deeper, more complex realities of boxing negotiations. While Berlanga may have the physical talent and charisma to make waves, boxing is also influenced by timing, marketability, and mutual market interest—factors beyond the immediate control of both a fighter and a promoter. Canelo’s reluctance to engage in rematches with non-competitive fighters adds another layer of complication to Berlanga’s ambitions.
Headlining vs. Supporting: The Undercard Dilemma
This weekend, Berlanga prepares to fight Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz on the undercard of an event that he feels has sidelined him. He had envisioned headlining his own event, possibly in Puerto Rico, but feels that financial constraints imposed by DAZN and Hearn contributed to his circumstances. His frustration with this decision is palpable, and he asserts a point many fighters feel: the desire for recognition. It raises the question of how fighters can leverage their capabilities while ensuring they are given the spotlight they deserve.
In his words, Berlanga sees himself as more than just a fighter; he considers himself a self-made “boss.” This self-identification is not uncommon among athletes who seek to exert more control over their careers. Yet, it also opens the door to deeper discussions about the nature of boxing contracts and the dynamics of power within the industry. As Berlanga navigates the undercard, the dynamics are reflective of broader tensions within boxing, where fighters often find themselves at the whims of promoters—maneuvering between passion and business.
The Importance of Control and Partnerships
Berlanga’s desire to “handle his own business” encapsulates a growing sentiment amongst fighters—especially those who have experienced perceived mishandlings by their promoters. He invites other networks and promotions to reach out, seeking genuine partnerships rather than being under the control of a promoter. This overture to future collaborators highlights the emerging trend where athletes wish to redefine their trajectories, seeking equity and mutual benefit rather than subservience in promotional structures.
Yet, while his sentiments about wanting control are strong, they do raise questions about whether Berlanga possesses the experience and strategy necessary to navigate this self-directed journey successfully. In a sport as perilous and competitive as boxing, even the fiercest of fighters must exercise caution when stepping outside the traditional norms established by the industry.
A Deluded Pursuit of Canelo Alvarez?
Despite Berlanga’s confidence regarding a potential rematch with Canelo, skepticism looms. His arguments reveal a certain disconnect from the reality of boxing’s business side, particularly Canelo’s rematch criteria. Berlanga’s candid nature and bravado can be seen as admirable but may also pigeonhole him as unrealistic when aspirations don’t align with the operational constraints of the sport.
He envisions that defeating Scull would create a compelling case for a repeat showdown against Canelo. Yet, this overlooks the complexities of desire in boxing, where even the best fighters prioritize strategic matchups that serve their legacies and financial interests. In Canelo’s case, a decisive victory over Berlanga might not be appealing, particularly given his previous domination in their last bout.
Through his commentary, Berlanga gives insight into both a fighter’s frustration and their calculated hopes for an illustrious future. It reflects both the ambition to make a mark and the often overlooked challenges that accompany such aspirations in the world of professional boxing.