Lomachenko won the IBF strap last May with an 11th round stoppage of George Kambosos Jr. in Perth, Australia. The victory marked his return to world champion status after nearly four years without a title.
Before that, Lomachenko had a rough stretch. He lost his unified 135lb titles to Teofimo Lopez in October 2020. Then in May 2023, he dropped a controversial decision to undisputed champion Devin Haney.
Now, Lomachenko hasn't given any updates on when he'll return to the ring. He's reportedly dealing with a back injury, which has complicated things.
The IBF has taken action due to this inactivity. They've ordered an interim title fight between Zaur Abdullaev and Raymond Muratalla. Jake Donovan reported that Lomachenko got a second medical exemption, but he must face the Abdullaev-Muratalla winner by October 8, 2025. If he doesn't meet this deadline, the interim champ will become the full IBF titleholder.
The lightweight division is buzzing with activity. WBO champ Denys Berinchyk faces Keyshawn Davis on February 14. Shakur Stevenson defends his WBC belt against Floyd Schofield on February 22. And WBA titlist Gervonta Davis takes on Lamont Roach on March 1.
This IBF ultimatum could really shake up the 135lb landscape. Fans will be eager to hear Lomachenko's next move. Interestingly, one of his lightweight rivals reportedly doesn't want Lomachenko to continue his career.