Berlanga secures crushing knockout victory in unwanted bout of boxing encounter
Fight Night Recap: Edgar Berlanga Dominates Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz
Edgar Berlanga showcased his dominance once again last Saturday, demolishing Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz in a one-round spectacle in Orlando. In our pre-fight chat with Berlanga, it was clear he wasn't thrilled about the fight, but he made short work of the underestimated opponent.
Gonzalez-Ortiz simply couldn't keep up with the skilled Berlanga. The bout was a stiff one to watch, given how lopsided it was from the get-go.
Berlanga hadn't shown much enthusiasm leading up to the fight, weighing in 1.6 pounds over the limit. Despite his apparent apathy, he easily dispatching of his opponent.
Before the fight, Berlanga took some jibes at Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn, creating a bit of tension in their relationship. With Berlanga's current contract coming to an end, there's uncertainty about whether he'll re-sign with Matchroom.
Berlanga's initial plan was to headline a fight in Puerto Rico in 2025, but the promoter shuffled him into the co-main event beneath Austin "Ammo" Williams vs. Volny, a move that Berlanga saw as disrespectful. Berlanga had his heart set on fighting "in front of his people" in Puerto Rico.
Hearn has defended Matchroom's management of Berlanga's career, citing the significant earnings Berlanga has made during his tenure with the promoter, including $12 million from three headline fights. However, Berlanga is determined to test the waters as a free agent, seeking high-profile fights against top-tier opponents, potentially including a rematch with Canelo Alvarez.
Despite the squabbles, one thing is certain - everyone had a better night than Gonzalez-Ortiz. As for what the future holds for Berlanga and Matchroom, only time will tell.
Edgar Berlanga has now become a free agent, concluding his time with Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn, who previously managed his career. This decision may pave the way for a potential match against Canelo Alvarez, a notable opponent, in future bouts, which is mentioned in Berlanga's quest for high-profile fights. In 2025, Berlanga had earlier planned to headline a fight in Puerto Rico, but his intentions might be altered following his newfound freedom as a free agent.
