Vasiliy Lomachenko faces a pivotal decision in his career - whether to retire as a champion or pursue a long-desired unification bout against Gervonta “Tank” Davis. Approaching his 37th birthday, Lomachenko is at a crossroads, with recent back pain adding to his considerations as he contemplates the future from his war-torn homeland of Ukraine.
The former three-division champion has made it clear that money isn’t a factor in his decision, prioritizing family and responsibilities at home. His manager, Egis Klimas, expressed that Lomachenko’s focus is more on his personal obligations in Ukraine, including a role in the country’s army, rather than another potential run at lightweight supremacy.
If Lomachenko decides to step away from the ring, his departure will shake up the lightweight division. Top Rank has hinted that rising contenders Keyshawn Davis and Raymond Muratalla could soon target titles if Lomachenko vacates. With unbeaten William Zepeda angling for a title shot against Shakur Stevenson, Davis and Muratalla may find themselves vying for different belts, potentially setting up their own path to the top.
Lomachenko’s journey has been marked by his Olympic triumphs, a grueling pro career, and battles with top contenders like Teofimo Lopez and Devin Haney. Yet, as Lomachenko weighs his options, we wait to see if he will exit the sport on his own terms, with a belt around his waist.
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