Berlanga Explains That His 'Killer Instinct' Fuels The Knockout Streak

According to Top Rank's CEO, Bob Arum, super middleweight puncher Edgar Berlanga is the 'greatest power-punching phenomenon' since a young Mike Tyson.

Berlanga significantly raised his stature in 2020, as he continues to ride an undefeated knockout streak of 16-0 with 16 knockouts - with all of his knockouts coming in the first round.

"Edgar Berlanga is the greatest power-punching phenomenon I've seen since the heyday of a young Mike Tyson. I am absolutely astounded when I witness this incredible power of his punches from ringside," Arum stated.

In his most recent fight, the 23-year-old Berlanga easily battered and stopped Ulises Sierra, who many felt would be capable of getting to the second round.

Berlanga explains that he was unable to utilize his power when fighting the amateur ranks. 

But in the pros, he's become one of the most feared punchers in the sport.

"The secret is simple; it's hard work, it's nothing to it, just hard work. Discipline, dedication, not giving up. I did have power, but I didn't know how to use it and utilize it as an amateur," Berlanga said to The Sun.

"I wasn't dwelling on trying to hurt people and I didn't have a killer instinct the way I do now. Now, I'm a grown man and my mindset is different, now I'm a monster, a killer now, from amateur to turning pro. You have to have it in you, and if you don't there nothing you can do. And as I've got older I've learned to keep that killer mindset and that's very important, all the greats, they had a killer instinct."

In 2021, Top Rank is hoping to showcase Berlanga in a featured position on a June card, targeted to take place at Madison Square Garden in New York City. That plan will depend on the state of the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions at the time.