Edgar Berlanga: “I’ve just gotta stick to my gameplan and look like the superstar that I am”
Edgar Berlanga (21-0, 16 KOs) looks to steam past undefeated super middleweight contender Padraig McCrory (18-0, 9 KOs) in Orlando, where the pair will meet for their showdown at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida on Saturday February 24, live worldwide on DAZN.
The 26-year old believes that he is levels above his next opponent, eying a big step up – and potential world honours – within his next few fights.
On Seconds Out, he said: “I feel like he’s not on my level. I think I’m going to exploit him next weekend; I’ve got bigger fish to fry in the 168 lbs division.
“I know he’s coming in trying to protect his 0, so I’ve gotta be on point.
“For every fighter I’ve faced – it’s like their championship fight for them, so I’ve just gotta stick to my gameplan and look like the superstar that I am.”
So while the Puerto Rican is determined to put on a statement, he insists that he is not underestimating McCory.
While still undefeated, McCory’s resume certainly lacks credible wins, with his last coming against Steed Woodhall, who he beat comfortably over ten rounds to score a unanimous decision win.
At the age of 35, though, the Irishman’s best days could be way past him, giving Berlanga the opportunity to use the untested fighter as a launchpad to superstardom.
Berlanga comes off a 12-round unanimous decision victory over Jason Quigley – another Irish super middleweight.
While building a reputation as a destructive puncher, with his first 16 professional bouts resulting in first-round stoppages, Berlanga has gone the distance in his last five, perhaps indicating that his power is somewhat compromised as he steps up in level.
With Canelo Alvarez still considered by many as the number one in the division, Berlanga will be hoping to navigate his way towards a potential Mexico vs Puerto Rico mega-fight.
On the Berlanga-McCrory undercard, Shakhram Giyasov meets Pablo Cesar Cano and Antonio Vargas faces Jonathan Rodriguez in World title eliminators, as hot prospect Yankiel Rivera fights for a first pro title in Orlando, Florida on February 24, live worldwide on DAZN.