On the night of May 19th in San Diego, USA, a bout took place between Mexican Emanuel Navarrete (38-2-1, 31 KOs) and Ukrainian Denys Berinchyk (19-0, 9 KOs) for the WBO lightweight title (up to 61.2 kg). Berinchyk won by judges' decision: 115-113 Berinchyk, 116-112 Navarrete, 116-112 Berinchyk.
This fight marked Berinchyk's first title match in his professional career. Navarrete moved up to his fourth weight class. Last year, he defended his championship title in a lighter category three times.
Fight Statistics
According to Compubox statistics, Denys landed 127 punches out of 732 thrown (17.3%), with 43 of 339 jabs landing (12.7%). 84 power punches out of 393 thrown by Berinchyk hit the target (21.4%).
Navarrete landed a total of 128 punches out of 612 thrown (20.9%), with 30 of 189 jabs hitting the mark (15.9%). 98 power punches out of 423 thrown by Navarrete landed (23.2%).
What’s Next?
Berinchyk is now a champion and a desirable target for lightweight prospects. Especially since Denys has stated his readiness, naming Shakur Stevenson, Keyshawn Davis, and Raymond Muratalla as potential opponents.
Given that it is currently only May, it is highly likely that Berinchyk will fight again this year. Most of the lightweight division’s top fighters and prospects are currently in the USA.