Vasyl Lomachenko, one of the sport’s most impressive amateurs and watchable professionals, has released a long-awaited statement on his future.
The three-weight world champion has been out of the ring since May 12, 2024, a victory against George Kambosos Jr in which he picked up the vacant IBF Lightweight World Title.
Lomachenko’s team had promptly entered talks with Gervonta Davis for a unification bout, but the Ukrainian pulled out due to a lack of desire to fight. He was then awaiting news on a back injury before making a decision on his fighting future.
Today in a post on social media, he confirmed that he will now retire from the sport of boxing.
“First and foremost, I want to thank my lord and saviour Jesus Christ for guiding a prideful young man down a path that repeatedly showed me that fame, legacy and recognition are not the true purposes of life.
“I am grateful for every defeat and victory, both in the ring and in life. I am thankful that, as my career comes to an end, I have generated clarity about the direction a person must take in order to achieve true victory.
“Not just in the ring but in the whole self. Only then can one achieve their true reward. I thank God for my honest and kind parents for their care, love and warmth throughout my life. My father [and trainer Anatoly Lomachenko] not only taught me the art of boxing but also how to be a role model for my own children, the same way he has been for me.
“I have made many mistakes in life and in the gym, but he was always by my side…”
Lomachenko, 18-3 with 12 KOs, went on to thank both promoter Bob Arum and manager Egis Klimas, before signing off with a message to fans.
“I would also be remiss not to thank my dear boxing fans around the world. You have always supported me with passion for over a decade. I hope you continue to respect and love this sport… Peace to all, may the lord bless his people.”
The 37 year-old’s legacy lies in his revolutionary footwork, technical brilliance, and ability to dominate top opponents with surgical precision. Widely regarded as one of the most skillful of his era, he will leave an enduring mark on modern boxing technique and strategy.
