Fresh off a defeat to Canelo Alvarez, Edgar Berlanga wasn't expected to jump back in there with an elite-level fighter. He was, however, supposed to fight someone far more recognizable and worthy.

Prior to making his return, Berlanga (23-1, 18 KOs) called out all of the heavy hitters. From Caleb Plant to Jermall Charlo. You name em’ and Berlanga likely called them out. But, despite all of the talk, he wound up fighting Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz.

At no point in his career was Ortiz in the championship mix. He also spent roughly 10 years behind bars.....

“It don’t matter,” said Berlanga as he abruptly cut off Naji from Cigar Talk during their interview. “Look at who he fought. Look at that guy's resume.”

Ortiz may have been undefeated before facing Berlanga but in terms of his resume, it isn't as glamorous as Berlanga makes it seem. Additionally, fans were apoplectic and stupefied when he stepped onto the scales.

Ortiz has never had bulging muscles, broad shoulders, or a six-pack, but he looked like he was in horrific shape on the night of the fight. His conditioning and physical appearance were accentuated due to his performance. The now 35-year-old barely put up a fight, losing to Berlanga via first-round stoppage.

Downing Ortiz due to a few extra rolls on his sides annoys Berlanga. He believes that he still deserves credit. If his naysayers aren’t willing, he simply wants them to take a look at a decorated former champion who wasn’t known as a physical specimen.

“They keep talking about his body,” continued Berlanga. “If I would’ve stopped a guy who was 250, bodybuilder, y’all would’ve gave me credit? Look at Tyson Fury. He got love handles and he’s known as one of the greatest heavyweight champions of all time. They just look for anything they can get and tarnish me.”

Berlanga will return on July 12, as part of a Ring Magazine event, when he faces Hamzah Sheeraz in a WBC super middleweight eliminator.