In the world of boxing, weight management is integral to a fighter’s success, and Edgar Berlanga, a former super middleweight world title challenger, is no stranger to this challenge. With aspirations to meet Gervonta Davis at a catchweight of 150 pounds in 2025, Berlanga is contemplating a notable weight loss strategy reminiscent of rapper 50 Cent’s dramatic diet transformation. Berlanga, who stands tall at 6’1″ and weighs upwards of 190 pounds, believes that shedding 40 pounds is achievable, especially if the majority of that comes from water weight. However, this raises a multitude of questions: Is this a sustainable approach to fighting? Can Berlanga’s ambitions outweigh his recent setbacks?
At just 27 years old, Berlanga holds a record of 22 wins, 1 loss, and 17 KOs, showcasing his power and potential. However, his rise has been met with controversy. Many argue that he has been less than selective with the opponents he faced to secure marquee fights. Previous victories against lesser-known fighters have led him to a title shot against Canelo Alvarez, where he was exposed through a wide decision loss. This recent bout against Canelo has made it glaringly apparent that Berlanga’s style and game plan might need rethinking. His inability to fully engage during the fight and a reluctance to take risks led many to question his resolve and ring intelligence.
While the prospect of Berlanga dropping to 150 pounds may seem enticing, history has shown that drastic weight cuts can have detrimental effects on an athlete’s performance. Fighters often struggle with energy depletion, reduced stamina, and an inability to recover adequately after weigh-ins. Berlanga’s plan, albeit ambitious, must be approached cautiously. Given his previous fight where he rehydrated to the 190s, the idea of meeting a smaller but incredibly skilled opponent like Gervonta Davis raises alarms. Davis, at 30-0 with 28 KOs, possesses the cunning and experience that Berlanga would be wise to respect.
Berlanga’s desire to fast-track his career through calls for big fights, seemingly ignoring the fundamentals of earning such matchups, has drawn parallels to social media-driven fighters like Jake Paul. Despite his aspirations and calls out to other prominent boxers, including Anthony Joshua and Jermall Charlo, Berlanga’s fanbase remains relatively modest. His fading popularity after the Canelo loss could hamper his marketability and ability to command significant fights. While he might dream of headlining big cards, the road to achieving such goals is paved with both hard work and the ingrained respect of the boxing community.
With aspirations hanging in the balance, Edgar Berlanga’s future in the sport looks uncertain. To successfully navigate his proposed matchup with Gervonta Davis, he must not only adhere to a strict diet but also demonstrate the ring intelligence and fighting spirit that fans desire. While the desire for a blockbuster fight is evident, Berlanga must first address the foundational aspects of his training and fighting style. If he can transform not just his weight but his overall approach to the sport, he may very well find himself back on track toward reclaiming his status as a top contender in the boxing arena.
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