Emanuel Navarrete (38-2, 31 KO’s) was high for years. He took boxing by storm when he upset Issac Dogobe in 2018, and he was adored for his unusual style of relentless pressure.
Questions began to arise about weight issues, though, as he was moving up quickly and the run nearly came to a halt when he was knocked down by Liam Wilson.
Navarrete recovered and stopped Wilson, but the issue dangled.
Earlier this year, the run ended. Navarrete appeared out of shape, lethargic, and slow as he challenged Denys Berinchyk, and was beaten by unanimous decision.
Oscar Valdez (32-2, 24 KO’s) has long been known as one of Mexico’s best, and was an undefeated two-weight world champion.
He was soundly beaten by a pound-for-pound stalwart in Shakur Stevenson. and some felt that his time at the top may be done.
Following the loss to Stevenson, Valdez found his way back to a title shot against Navarrete and in a fun but clear victory for Navarrete, Valdez suffered his second loss in three fights.
It would seem to many that Valdez’s time at the top was over. He responded with a victory over the same Liam Wilson that troubled Navarrete.
These two meet in a rematch with both fighters walking into the ring differently than they did the first time.
Navarrete’s resolve and dedication are in question while he walks into the biggest fight of his career. Valdez, meanwhile, seems to have resurrected his career and reignited a fire.
This rematch could lead to a trilogy, but if the fight is dominated by either fighter, the loser will drop far down the totem pole.
It’s a match-up that will be a fun affair in Phoenix, Arizona. Questions will be answered, and maybe more questions come up.
Valdez is looking to make a statement and stand atop the 130-pound division. Navarrete looks to correct mistakes and keep his place as one of Mexico’s best.
Prediction: Navarrete reclaims some good faith with a spirited split decision victory. Both fighters touch the canvas in a fight-of-the-year contender
