British super-middleweight sensation Hamzah Sheeraz faces a fierce challenge on July 12th as he squares off against heavy hitting Edgar Berlanga in New York.
The pair are set to headline the iconic Louis Armstrong Stadium, as The Ring makes history by becoming the first organization to promote a boxing event at the legendary venue.
Both fighters have already traded heated words in the build-up, each exuding confidence in outclassing the other on fight night, with hopes of earning a future title shot after the undisputed showdown between Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and Terence Crawford this September.
Berlanga has suffered just one defeat in his 24-fight professional career, a unanimous decision loss to Canelo in their 2024 showdown in Las Vegas.
Sheeraz returns to action after falling short in his bid for the WBC middleweight title, with many believing champion Carlos Adames had done enough to win, despite the judges declaring it a draw, ending his 21 fight unbeaten run.
The 26-year-old has since shaken up his camp, teaming up with renowned trainer Andy Lee in Ireland in hopes of joining the list of fighters Lee has successfully rebuilt after setbacks.
Andy Lee Says Sheeraz Will KO Berlanga Early
Andy Lee has emerged as one of boxing’s most sought-after trainers in recent months, having guided Joseph Parker’s rise from heavyweight outsider to world title contender with a string of standout performances.
Following that success, Lee also took the reins for Boxxer sensation Ben Whittaker’s rematch with Liam Cameron, a bout that saw Whittaker deliver a commanding first-round stoppage to silence his critics.
The former WBO World middleweight champion believes Sheeraz could follow in Whittaker’s footsteps in his upcoming bout, securing an early stoppage victory of his own.
“Peoples character reflects their fighting style and he’s emotional and eratic,” said Lee about Berlanga following his outbursts at the launch press conference.
Discussing his fighters preparation he added, “You talk about leaving no stone left unturned thats exactly what he’s doing. It wouldn’t surprise me if Hamzah knocks him out early.”
