“He’s Not That Guy He Was”: Pro Boxer Predicts Canelo Alvarez’s Fate Against David Benavidez

At this point, all fans and pundits can do is predict a winner! Since the actual fight between Canelo Álvarez and David Benavidez is nowhere in sight! So, much like the people before him, Edgar Berlanga has taken his pick between ‘Cinnamon’ and ‘The Mexican Monster’. While Canelo hasn’t picked an opponent for his next fight, Berlanga has a name.

During an interview with Fight Hub TV, the Brooklyn-born undefeated boxer wished Canelo would pick him next for the Cinco De Mayo date. Meanwhile, Berlanga has an opponent ready for 24 February in Caribe Royale Orlando, Florida. However, when the reporter from Fight Hype probed the New York resident about his thoughts on Benavidez vs. Canelo, he had a lot to say.

Berlanga describes what kind of guy Canelo Álvarez is

While wishing for Canelo to face him next, the reporter slid in the question everyone has been asking for a long time now. Can David Benavidez defeat Canelo Álvarez? It didn’t take Berlanga long to answer, as he stated, “I think he could, just for the simple fact that his punch output and he can take a punch.” He further emphasized Benavidez’s conditioning, punch output, and defense, claiming, “He could possibly breeze through Canelo just off that.” Berlanga went on to say what many of Canelo’s opponents has said about him. 

“Because Canelo right now, he’s not that guy that he was like five or six years ago when he was throwing combinations,” said Berlanga. He then commented on Canelo’s current state of performance. He said, “He just loads up on one punch and tries to knock you out or break your arms down or something.” On the contrary, Berlanga had high praise for Benavidez. “This guy Benavidez is like, he’s letting his hands fly,” remarked the NABO super middleweight champion. However, Berlanga isn’t alone in thinking that!

Former rival’s trainer takes his pick between Canelo and David Benavidez

Canelo fought and defeated Caleb Plant in November 2021, but Caleb’s trainer, Stephen Edwards, was still skeptical about Canelo’s ability to keep winning. However, he changed his mind quickly after he saw Canelo massacre Jermell Charlo on September 2023. While appearing in an interview with Fight Hype, Edwards revealed his new outlook of Canelo.

“He got an elite defense, [he] got an elite chin, he’s strong as hell, and he can punch also,” Edwards told Fight Hype. Citing those reasons, Plant’s trainer suggested that it wouldn’t be easy for Benavidez to power through Canelo Álvarez. “He a different level guy, when it comes down to that,” said Edwards. However, he refrained from giving a clear-cut prediction, claiming, “That’s a close fight.”

Also Read: “Canelo Has to Be…”: Former Rival Details Only Way Canelo Alvarez Can Defeat David Benavidez

Despite his numerous wins against numerous greats, Berlanga doesn’t think Canelo has got it anymore. However, until the final bell goes off on their most awaited fight, your guess is as good as anyone else’s. Until then, all we can do is wait with bated breath. Who are you cheering for? 

Watch This Story: David Benavidez possible next Opponents