In the often-predictable world of professional boxing, pre-fight press conferences are typically characterized by measured bravado, standard challenges, and the occasional staredown. However, a recent event in New York City defied all norms, transforming a routine media gathering into a bizarre and intensely personal spectacle involving rising super middleweight Edgar Berlanga Jr. and boxing legend-turned-promoter Oscar De La Hoya. What transpired was less a sports briefing and more a theatrical confrontation, leaving onlookers to ponder the fine line between promotion and genuine animosity.
The Unveiling of Disdain
The stage was set for the highly anticipated super middleweight bout between Berlanga and Hamzah Sheeraz, a main event on a DAZN boxing card. Yet, the spotlight quickly shifted away from the upcoming fight itself. Days before the formal press conference, Berlanga had openly voiced his strong disapproval of De La Hoya, hinting at a potential physical altercation. While that direct confrontation was averted by security measures, the atmosphere on Thursday was charged with an undeniable tension.
The catalyst for the public escalation arrived when Berlanga, known for his power in the ring, demonstrated a different kind of striking ability, opting for psychological warfare. He launched a wig and, remarkably, women`s underwear towards De La Hoya, publicly labeling the “Golden Boy” a “stripper.” This pointed jab was a direct reference to infamous photos of De La Hoya in women`s attire that first surfaced in 2007 – a historical vulnerability Berlanga evidently saw fit to exploit for maximum impact.
De La Hoya`s Calculated Counter
For a moment, De La Hoya appeared to brush off the bizarre `gift` with a dismissive laugh, a seasoned promoter accustomed to the theatrics of the fight game. However, his composure was short-lived. He quickly retaliated, not with physical aggression, but with verbal volleys aimed squarely at Berlanga`s professional standing and personal identity. De La Hoya challenged Berlanga`s championship aspirations, or rather, his lack thereof, emphasizing his own storied career achievements. He didn`t stop there, however, venturing into a more controversial territory by questioning Berlanga`s Puerto Rican heritage.
“I do, actually! First of all, sit down. You have no world titles. Let me put them on now! I’ve got some right here for you! Listen to me, this guy is not even Puerto Rican! I’ve been asking for your Puerto Rican passport! I’m more Puerto Rico than you! Your jewelry is as fake as your wins!” De La Hoya retorted, his voice dripping with dismissiveness.
The exchange intensified rapidly, with both men trading increasingly personal insults. The situation deteriorated to the point where security personnel were compelled to step in, forming a human barrier to prevent the verbal sparring from devolving into a physical altercation. It was a stark reminder that in the world of professional combat sports, the fight can often begin long before the first bell rings.
The Roots of the Rivalry
Such public animosity rarely emerges without a backstory. The genesis of this particular feud can be traced back to De La Hoya`s critical remarks regarding a potential fight between Berlanga and Canelo Alvarez. While De La Hoya`s primary target in that commentary appeared to be his former fighter, Canelo, Berlanga found himself caught in the crossfire, taking personal offense at being perceived as mere “collateral damage.” This perceived disrespect festered, culminating in the highly charged atmosphere of the recent press conference. Ironically, Berlanga would later go on to lose a unanimous decision to Alvarez, perhaps adding another layer to his frustration with De La Hoya`s initial assessment.
Beyond the Headlines: Spectacle vs. Sport
This incident raises pertinent questions about the evolving nature of boxing promotion. Is this level of personal attack and public humiliation a necessary evil to generate buzz in a crowded sports landscape? Or does it detract from the integrity of the sport, reducing professional athletes to performers in a reality show? While the theatrics undoubtedly capture headlines and social media attention, they also risk overshadowing the athletic prowess and dedication that define boxing. De La Hoya, a master of self-promotion and a former champion, clearly understands the value of spectacle. Berlanga, an aspiring star, appears to be learning that lesson, albeit with an unconventional approach.
Whether this dramatic interlude will ultimately benefit Berlanga`s career or simply serve as a bizarre footnote remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the line between calculated promotion and genuine personal animosity has become increasingly blurred in boxing`s current landscape. As the sport continues to evolve, these unscripted moments of pure, unadulterated drama may, for better or worse, become as much a part of the fight game as the punches thrown in the ring.
