Ukrainian legend Vasyl Lomachenko has retired from the sport after tremendously accomplished career that saw him receive recognizable feats in both the amateur and pro ranks. The news was confirmed earlier today in a video message shared across social media.
Retiring at the age of 37, Vasyl Lomachenko leaves behind a prevalent legacy in the sport of boxing that will be hard to match; first gaining relevance as one of the most prolific amateur boxers through his 397 total number of fights, of which he lost only one, and then his career as a professional which saw him become a world champion in his third professional fight.
The Ukrainian fighter first made his professional debut in 2013 where he netted a 4th round knockout (KO) win in, notably, a non-world title bout scheduled for 10 rounds―a rarity for any debutant. Lomachenko would go on to compete in at a total of fourteen title fights in which he unified twice at lightweight (135 lbs).
Alongside the ups, Lomachenko also experienced several blemishes throughout his pro career, though his downs were largely overshadowed by his own deeds that culminated in him becoming a three-division world champion while capturing over five world titles in various divisions.
Known as “The Matrix” through his tenure as an amateur and pro, Vasyl Lomachenko was best known for his fluid style where footwork, hand speed and skill were combined to showcase the ability of one of the best fighters of this era.
Notable opponents on his resume include but are not limited to: Jorge Linares, Teofimo Lopez, Devin Haney and George Kambosos Jr.
In a message to fans worldwide, Lomachenko would reflect on his own career and the reasoning for his decision to retire.
“First and foremost, I’d like to thank our Lord Jesus Christ, for everything he has done for me, for guiding a prideful young man down a path that ultimately showed me that fame, legacy and recognition are not the true purpose of life,” Lomachenko said.
“I’m grateful for every victory and every defeat, both in the ring and in life. I’m thankful that, as my career comes to an end, I’ve gained clarity about the direction I must take in order to achieve victory.
“I thank god for my honest and wonderful and kind parents for their care, love and warmth I’ve felt throughout my life. My father taught me not only boxing, but how to be a role model for my own children.
“I’ve made many mistakes in life and in the gym but he was always by my side, correcting me when needed. I have many warm memories.
“To my family, you have always stood by me. You shared in my victories and you felt the pain of my losses. Those losses only made us stronger.“
The entirety of Lomachenko’s career easily puts him down as one of the most decorated and recognizable boxers, joining a list of many prominent fighters who currently grace the ranks of the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
With his career now having reached its twilight, the IBF lightweight title which he won in his last fight against Kambosos on May 12th in 2024 will be vacant and likely see American IBF interim champion Raymond Muratella elevated to full world champion status in the upcoming weeks.
