Emanuel Navarrete doesn’t hang around. After a meteoric rise that has seen the Mexican win world titles in two divisions and reel off five successful defences in 22 months, Navarrete is now seeking unifications at featherweight.
After flooring and outscoring Californian southpaw Ruben Villa to win the vacant WBO 126lbs crown on Friday night, Navarrete (33-1, 28 KOs) immediately turned his attention to IBF champion Josh Warrington, regarded by many as the best at the weight.
“I’m now a two-division world champion. I’m very happy and proud of this belt because it’s the symbol of all the sacrifices my team and I have made. It’s my payoff,” said the 25-year-old Navarrete, who previously won the WBO title at 122lbs.
“I have my sights set on all the world champions at 126. I would love to face [Josh] Warrington. I think that our styles will make for a great fight.”
Leeds’ Warrington (30-0, 7 KOs) hasn’t fought since blitzing Frenchman Sofiane Takoucht in two rounds in October 2019. He was expected to face WBA Regular champion Xu Can before the intervention of the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Both champions seem to genuinely crave unifications and, if it happens, the styles of Warrington and Navarrete should gel nicely and serve up an unforgettable war.
Main image: Mikey Williams/Top Rank.