Denys Berinchyk aims to become world champion on Saturday, and line up a unification clash with Vasiliy Lomachenko.
The Ukrainians could both bring titles into the ring for a potential match-up, and with Oleksandr Usyk fighting Tyson Fury on Saturday (live on DAZN) it’s a busy time for the country’s boxers.
Lomachenko defeated George Kambosos Jr. last weekend to win the IBF belt, and Berinchyk faces Emanuel Navarette on Saturday for the vacant WBO lightweight strap (live on ESPN in the US).
Berinchyk noted the importance for his country.
“All of the Ukrainian people believe in me and Oleksandr, and we feel this. It's a very special moment for us,” Berynchyk told BoxingScene.
He added: “This is my weight class, and I’ve been boxing at 135 pounds my entire career.
“I will be smarter than Navarrete and show him different styles.”
Discussing a potential fight with Lomachenko, Berinchyk was clear that he wanted the clash, and what he would do with his earnings.
“It's big money – nice,” he began, “And this money can be donated to the Ukrainian army. But first we must do our work on May 18.”
Live on DAZN: Fury vs. Usyk on May 18. Click here for details.