Hamzah Sheeraz Dominates Edgar Berlanga, Eyes Canelo Alvarez in 2026

In a striking performance at the Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens, New York, on July 12, 2025, Hamzah Sheeraz decisively defeated Edgar Berlanga in the fifth round, marking a significant milestone in his boxing career as he seeks a future bout with the renowned champion Saul "Canelo" Alvarez. Sheeraz, who made his debut in the super middleweight division, showcased his prowess by becoming only the second fighter to defeat Berlanga, who had previously been unbeaten in his professional career. This victory not only underscores Sheeraz's potential but also positions him as a frontrunner for a title match against Alvarez, scheduled for 2026.

Sheeraz, with a record of 22 wins (18 by knockout), demonstrated his boxing acumen by knocking Berlanga down multiple times during the match. The pivotal moment came in the fourth round when a powerful left hook sent Berlanga to the canvas, and despite Berlanga's attempts to recover, he was unable to withstand Sheeraz's relentless barrage of punches. The referee intervened in the fifth round, bringing the match to a close as Berlanga succumbed to yet another three-punch combination.

Boxing financier Turki Alalshikh, known for his involvement in promoting significant bouts, had previously identified Sheeraz and Chris Eubank Jr. as potential candidates to challenge Alvarez following his highly anticipated fight against Terence Crawford. This latest victory has undoubtedly bolstered Sheeraz's standing within the boxing community and heightened anticipation for a potential clash with Alvarez, who remains one of the sport's biggest draws.

In a post-fight interview, Sheeraz expressed his ambition, stating, "I’ve always dreamed of fighting the best, and Canelo is the best. I’ll work hard to earn that opportunity." His conviction resonates within the boxing world as fans and analysts alike speculate on the implications of his recent win.

The event also featured notable performances from other fighters. Shakur Stevenson successfully defended his WBC lightweight title against William Zepeda, winning by unanimous decision. Stevenson, criticized in the past for a lack of excitement in his fights, impressed spectators by engaging more actively in exchanges, showcasing a more aggressive style that has drawn favorable comparisons to his previous performances.

Furthermore, Subriel Matias dethroned Alberto Puello of his WBC super lightweight title in a closely contested majority decision, while David Morrell secured a contentious split decision victory over Imam Khataev in a light heavyweight bout. These fights contributed to a thrilling night of boxing, highlighting the evolving landscape of the sport.

As Sheeraz looks forward to potential matchups against elite competitors, the implications of his victory over Berlanga extend beyond the ring. This fight not only amplifies his professional trajectory but also adds a compelling narrative to the super middleweight division, where emerging talents are increasingly challenging established stars. Observers will undoubtedly be keen to follow Sheeraz's journey as he aims to solidify his status among boxing's elite and potentially secure a bout with Canelo Alvarez in the near future.

In conclusion, Hamzah Sheeraz's recent triumph against Edgar Berlanga has positioned him as a serious contender in the super middleweight division, generating significant buzz around his future prospects in the boxing world. As the sport continues to evolve, the anticipation for a Sheeraz versus Alvarez encounter remains palpable, promising an exciting narrative for fans and analysts alike.