“Canelo” Álvarez Triumphs Over Edgar Berlanga
Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez secured a unanimous decision victory over Puerto Rican boxer Édgar Berlanga on Saturday to retain his three super middleweight world titles.
Álvarez, 34, earned two scorecards of 118-109 and one of 117-110, successfully defending his titles from the World Boxing Association, the World Boxing Organization, and the World Boxing Council.
The first round was a tactical affair with minimal action, although Álvarez was more aggressive. Berlanga responded in the second round with effective jabs, leveling the fight.
In the third round, Berlanga started strongly from a distance but was caught by a powerful left hook from Álvarez that sent him to the canvas. Álvarez pressed for a knockout, but Berlanga managed to recover and fought cautiously thereafter.
Despite Berlanga’s physical conditioning and a strong comeback in the seventh round, Álvarez’s relentless offense and accuracy continued to dominate. Álvarez attempted to finish the fight in the eighth round, but Berlanga's defense held firm.
Both fighters exchanged heated words at the end of the tenth round. Álvarez concluded strongly in the eleventh with effective short-range punches. Berlanga, however, ended the fight on a high note, demonstrating resilience despite his first career defeat.
The bout ended with both fighters embracing, and Álvarez now holds a record of 62 wins, 39 by knockout, with two losses and two draws. Berlanga’s record stands at 22 wins, 17 by knockout, and his unbeaten streak was ended.
