Hearn's Plan To Keep Berlanga: A Fight With Plant Or Charlo?

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 05, 2025

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Why Keeping Berlanga is Crucial for Matchroom Boxing

Berlanga represents a significant investment for Matchroom Boxing. His raw talent, combined with his electrifying knockout power (16 knockouts in his first 16 fights!), has created a considerable buzz. He's quickly becoming a fan favorite, especially among younger audiences. Losing Berlanga to another promoter would not only be a significant financial blow—representing lost revenue from future fights and sponsorships—but also a blow to Matchroom's reputation for developing top-tier boxing talent.

• Berlanga's knockout record: His early career was defined by stunning knockouts, establishing him as a must-watch fighter.
• Appeal to a younger audience: Berlanga's aggressive style and social media presence attract a younger demographic, crucial for the future of boxing.
• Matchroom's investment: Matchroom has invested heavily in Berlanga's training, promotion, and career development.

David Plant: A Viable Contender for Berlanga?

David Plant, a respected contender in the middleweight division, presents a compelling, yet less risky, option for Berlanga's next fight. Plant boasts a solid record and has consistently proven his skills against tough opponents. A fight between Berlanga and Plant would be a compelling stylistic clash, pitting Berlanga's aggressive power against Plant's more measured approach.

• Plant's strengths and weaknesses: Plant is a skilled boxer with good defense, but he might lack the explosive power to match Berlanga.
• Box office potential: While not a massive star, Plant has a dedicated following, ensuring a solid audience for the fight.
• Risk vs. reward for Berlanga: This fight carries a moderate risk for Berlanga, offering a solid stepping stone towards bigger fights.

Jermell Charlo: A Higher-Stakes Showdown for Berlanga?

Facing Jermell Charlo, the undisputed super welterweight champion, represents a significantly riskier, yet potentially more rewarding, path for Berlanga. Charlo is a highly skilled, proven champion with an undefeated record and a significantly higher profile than Plant. A win over Charlo would catapult Berlanga into superstardom, but a loss could significantly derail his momentum.

• Charlo's undefeated record and championship belts: Charlo's status as a champion carries immense prestige and would bring significant media attention to the fight.
• Increased risk and potential reward: This is a high-stakes gamble. A win would propel Berlanga to the top, but a loss would be a major setback.
• Media attention: A fight with Charlo would generate immense media buzz, exponentially increasing Berlanga's visibility.

The Business Considerations Behind Hearn's Decision

Hearn's decision will hinge on a careful evaluation of the financial implications and long-term career prospects for Berlanga. A fight against Plant offers a safer route to a victory and continued progression, while a fight with Charlo presents higher risks, but potentially greater rewards in terms of exposure and financial gain.

• Pay-per-view potential: A Charlo fight has significantly higher PPV potential, potentially outweighing the risk.
• Sponsorship deals and endorsement opportunities: A victory against Charlo would unlock significantly more lucrative sponsorship deals.
• Long-term career implications: The choice will shape Berlanga's trajectory, influencing his ranking, future opportunities, and overall career success.

Hearn's Plan to Keep Berlanga - The Verdict

Ultimately, the choice between Plant and Charlo depends on Hearn's assessment of Berlanga's readiness for a high-stakes championship fight. While a Plant fight offers a safer path, the potential rewards of a Charlo matchup are undeniably tempting. Hearn's plan to keep Berlanga at the forefront likely involves carefully weighing the risks and rewards, considering not only Berlanga's boxing skills but also his marketability and long-term career goals. My prediction leans towards a Plant fight first, building Berlanga's confidence and experience before potentially targeting Charlo later.

What do YOU think? Who should Berlanga fight next to continue Hearn's plan to keep him a top contender? Share your thoughts on Hearn's plan to keep Berlanga in the comments below!