Vasiliy Lomachenko hangs up his gloves at 37, ending a remarkable boxing career that spanned both amateur and professional ranks.
The Ukrainian boxer started his journey at just 4 years old, guided by his father Anatoly Lomachenko, a former boxer and respected Ukrainian trainer. Lomachenko's amateur record was nearly flawless, with 396 wins and only 1 loss. That single defeat came at the 2007 World Championships in Chicago against Albert Selimov, in what many considered a controversial decision.
Lomachenko's amateur career shone brightly with two Olympic gold medals. He clinched his first in Beijing 2008 and followed it up with another in London 2012. He also nabbed World Championship titles in Milan 2009 and Baku 2011.
In October 2013, Lomachenko stepped into the professional ring. His pro career got off to a rocky start when he lost his second fight against Orlando Salido for the vacant world featherweight championship. The bout ended in a split decision loss for Lomachenko, though the belt remained vacant as Salido didn't make weight.
Undeterred, Lomachenko bounced back in his very next fight. He defeated Gary Russell Jr. by majority decision, securing his first world championship title.
Throughout his professional career, Lomachenko racked up an impressive record of 18 wins and 3 losses in 21 fights. He matched Kosei Tanaka's record by winning world titles in three weight classes (featherweight, super featherweight, and lightweight) in just 12 fights.
Lomachenko's final professional bout took place in May 2024 against George Kambosos Jr. He emerged victorious in the 11th round, claiming the vacant IBF lightweight title.
In a heartfelt video shared on social networks, Lomachenko announced his retirement:
"I am grateful that, as I approach the end of my career, I have gained clarity on the path a person must take to achieve true victory."
Reflecting on his journey, Lomachenko paid tribute to his father's influence:
"My father not only taught me how to box, but also how to be a role model for my own children. I made many mistakes in life and in the gym, but he was always by my side, correcting me when necessary. I have many fond memories."
Lomachenko's retirement marks the end of an era in boxing, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of fighters.
