Brooklyn native Edgar Berlanga is set to face England’s Hamzah Sheeraz at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens on July 12. This marks Berlanga’s first hometown headline fight in over two years. He last fought in New York City on June 24, 2023, defeating Ireland’s Jason Quigley at Madison Square Garden’s Theater, retaining the NABO super middleweight title. Berlanga discussed his Brooklyn roots, the upcoming fight against Sheeraz, and boxing in his hometown with amNewYork.
Berlanga’s boxing aspirations began at Starrett City Boxing in Brooklyn’s East New York neighborhood, founded in 1978 by renowned trainer Jimmy O’Pharrow and home to 10 world champions. “That gym is legendary in Brooklyn,” Berlanga told amNewYork. “All the great fighters trained there, and I’m proud to be one of them.” Starrett City aims to assist young adults from high-crime, high-unemployment areas. Berlanga overcame significant challenges, including his father’s incarceration and living in shelters and project homes. “Growing up, I had to find my path through all the chaos,” he said.
His career-defining moment was on March 19, 2022, at Madison Square Garden’s Hulu Theater, where he defeated Canada’s Steve Rolls and retained the NABO super middleweight title, selling out the theater despite competing with other major events. “I sold out the Hulu Theater for my first main event,” he said. “It was packed. That’s when I knew I’d made it.”
Looking ahead to facing Sheeraz, Berlanga is confident despite being viewed as the underdog. “I’m really going to beat Sheeraz,” he said. Turki Alashikh posted online that he’d be “very upset” if Berlanga knocks out Sheeraz, fueling Berlanga’s determination. “I’m aiming for a big win, to be sharp and precise, using great defense, footwork, head movement, and a strong jab to break him down.”
This fight holds significant importance for Berlanga, marking his first hometown headline in over two years. “It’s going to be a fun night,” he said. “When I headline, I bring the city out.” Berlanga values his fans’ support, saying without them, “you’re nothing.” “Imagine being a world champion without a fan base,” he said. “In boxing, you’re nobody without fans.”
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