Vasiliy Lomachenko, regarded as one of the most talented boxers in professional history, announced his retirement from the sport at 37. The Ukrainian fighter shared a video on social media explaining his decision, coming about 13 months after his last bout where he retained his IBF lightweight title by stopping two-time champion George Kambosos Jr. in the 11th round. Lomachenko expressed gratitude for both his victories and defeats, highlighting the clarity he gained in understanding what it takes to achieve true success and surpass his former self.
George Kambosos Jr. also reflected on their fight, sharing with CBS Sports his respect and honor in sharing the ring with Lomachenko, describing it as a surreal experience. Known for his exceptional footwork and inventive punching angles, Lomachenko built his reputation with a spectacular amateur career, winning gold medals at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics and at the 2009 and 2011 World Championships, finishing with an almost perfect record of 396-1. His only loss was to Russia’s Albert Selimov in 2007, whom he later defeated twice.
Lomachenko aimed to challenge for a world title in his pro debut and signed with Top Rank promoter Bob Arum, securing a title shot in just his second fight despite tough conditions. He claimed his first world crown in 2014 by defeating Gary Russell Jr. for the vacant WBO featherweight title in only his third professional fight, tying the record for the fastest to win a world title. Lomachenko expressed thanks to Top Rank, Bob Arum, U.S. fans, and supporters worldwide for their role in his career.
Throughout his 11-year professional career, Lomachenko’s success and ambition matched his amateur dominance. He won world titles in three weight classes (126-135 pounds), notably knocking out Rocky Martinez to claim the WBO junior lightweight belt in 2016, earning a reputation as “No-Mas-Chenko” after four consecutive stoppages. Though unable to secure a marquee fight in the lower weight classes, he moved up to lightweight in 2018, capturing the WBA title by stopping Jorge Linares and later unified three of his four lightweight belts.
Renowned for his lightning-fast hands and feet, sharp ring IQ, elite athleticism, and strong defensive skills despite his offensive style, Lomachenko was widely considered the most skillful fighter of his era. He spent nearly three years as the top pound-for-pound boxer and often credited the guidance of his father and trainer, Anatoly Lomachenko. His two late career losses came in high-level title fights against undefeated stars Teofimo Lopez Jr. and Devin Haney.
Fan Take: Lomachenko’s retirement marks the end of an era for pure technical artistry in boxing. For fight fans, his departure leaves a void in the sport’s creative and skillful expression, but also opens opportunities for fresh stars to rise and redefine the landscape of boxing.
