This Saturday night at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego, Emanuel Navarrete faces a pivotal moment in his career as he takes on the undefeated Denys Berinchyk for the vacant WBO lightweight title. Broadcasted on ESPN, this bout is not only significant for the title at stake but also for Navarrete's potential future in the lightweight division. After a controversial draw in his last fight at super featherweight, Navarrete has expressed uncertainty about remaining at 135 pounds.

Navarrete, a seasoned fighter and current WBO super featherweight champion, is exploring the possibility of claiming a fourth division world title. His transition to the lightweight division has raised concerns, notably after appearing less conditioned in recent weigh-ins. The fight against Berinchyk, a 2012 Olympic silver medalist known for a versatile and challenging style, will test Navarrete's adaptability to the higher weight class.

Watch Navarrete vs. Santisma highlights: Watch

In a recent interview with Sean Zittel’s YouTube channel, Navarrete emphasized his respect for his opponent's capabilities and the difficulties posed by his style:

"First I want to win the fight and know that everything is good and ascend to that group. I can only bring me happiness," Navarrete said.

"I know there were some inconsistencies in my fight against [Robson] Conceicao. Whether I was 100% or not, the fight already happened. So, we think about what comes ahead, and 100%, it will be difficult to fight a fighter [Berinchyk] that can manage both stances, especially with that Olympic style."

Navarrete further described the complexities of facing an opponent influenced by notable Ukrainian fighters:

"We’re focused and attentive and we’re going to be careful and mindful for all his changes in his stances and the punches that he throws. I will do everything possible to win by knockout. We were talking about Ukrainian styles. It’s a style that has been accepted really well. Lomachenko revolutionized things with that style followed by Usyk. It’s a style that has come up and it’s one of the most solid styles. It’s really hard to fight them."

Watch Berinchyk vs. Mendy highlights: Watch

Following the fight, Navarrete plans to take a cautious approach before making any definitive decisions about his career path. Depending on how he performs against Berinchyk and his physical adaptation to the new weight class, he will decide whether to stay at lightweight or return to super featherweight.

Image Credit: Top Rank