This is a somewhat unexpected matchup – many assumed these two would continue along parallel paths for a while longer. Hamzah Shiraz is the prototypical European boxer: a crisp jab, smooth footwork, clean straight punches, and a disciplined, economical approach. He doesn’t waste much but makes every shot count – and when he connects, it’s with real power.

Edgar Berlanga brings a different energy. He’s explosive, especially when launching forward in bursts. He leans heavily on hooks and uppercuts, and while aggressive, he isn’t reckless. Berlanga often sets traps and feints to open up a lane for one big punch.

Berlanga is two years older at 28. Both have faced real tests already. Edgar stepped up against Canelo Alvarez, was dropped, and lost a decision. Shiraz had his own trials – a tough stoppage win over Austin Williams that wasn’t without rocky moments, and an even more challenging outing against Carlos Adames, which ended in a debatable draw.

Berlanga typically throws more – 350 to 400 punches per fight, showing solid volume. Shiraz is more selective, usually in the 250–300 range. The difference? Accuracy. Shiraz lands 31% of his punches; Berlanga, about 22%. So while Edgar is busier, Hamzah is more efficient and clinical.

This marks Shiraz’s debut at super middleweight, a weight where Berlanga has long been comfortable. After a taxing bout with Adames and a post-fight injury, Shiraz admitted he was struggling to make weight – this jump is strategic, not just reactive.

Berlanga, by contrast, has faced world-class opposition in this division, including a loss to Canelo. In his last three fights, he’s scored two stoppages. He’s settled in here – and dangerous.

Their KO ratios are nearly identical: 81% for Shiraz, 78% for Berlanga. But the real question is what changes when Shiraz moves up in weight. If he keeps his timing and precision intact, Berlanga could be in trouble. But how will Hamzah respond to the attacks of a naturally bigger, heavier puncher?

Both men have been tested. Berlanga was dropped by Canelo – fair, given Alvarez’s pedigree, but it’s unlikely Canelo hits harder than Shiraz. Meanwhile, Shiraz has had rough moments under fire from Williams and Adames – fighters not known for the kind of raw power Berlanga brings.

How well each man absorbs punishment will be key. Berlanga’s durability against a fast, accurate puncher. Shiraz’s ability to take shots from a bigger, more physical opponent.

This will be Berlanga’s third fight in Queens, New York – and he’s 2-0 there with both wins coming by first-round knockout, though both bouts were way back in 2017.

For Shiraz, this is his first time fighting in the U.S. – and right on his opponent’s turf.

Emotion will be running high. Berlanga has been vocal in the lead-up, perhaps more tense than usual – especially after tournament promoter Turki Alalshikh openly backed Shiraz. Still, Berlanga has the edge in weight familiarity, home crowd support, and comfort in the setting.

Shiraz, meanwhile, enters with poise and precision on his side – and a big question mark: how will he handle himself in a new division, against a bigger man with power and pressure? That mystery may determine the night.