Emanuel Navarrete aims to extend his impressive resume when he defends the WBO junior lightweight title against Charly Suarez this Saturday in San Diego.
Navarrete’s notable career includes a 33-fight winning streak that was interrupted in November 2023 by a majority draw against Robson Conceicao. Despite this draw allowing him to retain his title, he ventured into the lightweight category but lost against Denys Berinchyk in a WBO title match, raising questions about his stamina after more than 40 bouts.
Recently, Navarrete proved those doubts unfounded, securing a sixth-round knockout over Oscar Valdez, reaffirming his strength in the junior lightweight division.
“My performance against Oscar Valdez was my way of showing that I’m now at 100 percent,” Navarrete stated. “There’s no doubt about that now.”
For Suarez, a 2016 Olympian, this bout marks a peak moment in his professional career since turning pro in 2019. At 18-0, he has faced obstacles in securing high-profile matches, including planned encounters with Henry Lebron and Andres Cortes in 2024 that ultimately did not materialize. Accordingly, Suarez will face Navarrete in a critical juncture of his journey.
Navarrete vs. Suarez Fight Card & Odds
- Emanuel Navarrete (c) -500 vs. Charly Suarez +360, WBO Junior Lightweight Title
- Raymond Muratalla -550 vs. Zaur Abdullaev, Lightweights
- Andres Cortes -4000 vs. Salvador Jimenez +1300, Junior Lightweights
Where to Watch Navarrete vs. Suarez
- Date: May 10
- Location: Pechanga Arena — San Diego
- Start time: 10 p.m. ET (Main card)
- How to watch: ESPN | Stream: fubo try for free
Prediction
Navarrete holds significant experience under pressure, bolstered by a wealth of championship battles. Although Suarez brings solid technical skills and an undefeated record, it will be a considerable challenge for him to pen a victory without prior experience in high-stakes matches.
Pick: Emanuel Navarrete by TKO in Round 9.
