Ukrainian boxer Vasiliy Lomachenko hangs up his gloves. He is retiring from the ring at the age of 37 after a long and successful career in amateur and professional boxing
After 396 victories and only one defeat, Vasyl Lomachenko had no one left to beat in the amateur ranks. Only Russia’s Albert Selimov had been able to beat him after a controversial decision at the 2007 World Championships in Chicago. Then came two Olympic gold medals (Beijing 2008 and London 2012) and two World Championships (Milan 2009 and Baku 2011), before he turned professional in October 2013
He became a three-weight world champion (featherweight, super featherweight and lightweight) in just 12 fights, a record he shares with fellow retiree Kosei Tanaka. His record is 18 wins and three losses in his 21 fights. His last fight was in May 2024, when he defeated George Kambosos Jr. in the 11th round to claim the vacant IBF lightweight title.
Lomachenko began his boxing apprenticeship at the age of four with his father, Anatoly, a former boxer who has long since become one of Ukraine’s most prestigious trainers. “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,” said Lomachenko.
In his second fight, the Ukrainian fought for the world featherweight championship (it was vacant) against Orlando Salido. The Mexican won by split decision. The belt was left without an owner because Salido had not made weight. In his third fight he faced Gary Russell, but Loma became world champion after a majority decision.
“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,” he announced in a video on his social networks.
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