That freedom dramatically changes the choices available to him. As an alternative of being limited by promotional politics, Lomachenko can now pursue the most important available paydays and the highest-profile matchups at lightweight.
The update immediately reignited speculation about potential fights against Gervonta Davis and Shakur Stevenson, although Stevenson may now represent the more realistic option given the growing Saudi involvement around major boxing events.
Now 38 years old, Lomachenko would return as certainly one of boxing’s most achieved technicians, but in addition certainly one of the game’s Most worthy free agents. His decision to skip tune-up fights suggests he believes there remains to be enough money and leverage available for immediate elite-level matchups despite the long layoff.
The lightweight division also looks much different now than when Lomachenko left. Fighters comparable to Shakur Stevenson, William Zepeda, Lamont Roach Jr., and Jadier Herrera have all moved into major positions while Riyadh Season money continues to reshape how the most important fights are made.
Mike Coppinger revealed today on X that Lomachenko’s contract with Top Rank expires today, making him a promotional free agent for the primary time in years. Lomachenko plans on returning in the autumn and needs a “big” fight with no tune-up.
The update immediately reignited speculation about potential fights against Gervonta Davis, Shakur Stevenson, and other major names at lightweight.
Lomachenko has not fought since stopping George Kambosos Jr. in May 2024 to capture the IBF lightweight title. After the victory, the previous three-division champion stepped away from boxing, citing emotional exhaustion and uncertainty about continuing his profession.
Back problems also reportedly disrupted negotiations for a proposed fight against Gervonta Davis before Lomachenko officially retired.
Now 38 years old, Lomachenko would return as certainly one of boxing’s most achieved technicians and certainly one of the game’s biggest free agents. His decision to avoid tune-up fights suggests he still views himself as able to competing immediately on the elite level despite the lengthy layoff.
The lightweight division has modified significantly during his absence, with Shakur Stevenson, William Zepeda, Lamont Roach Jr., and Jadier Herrera all moving into major title positions while Davis stays certainly one of the game’s biggest attractions.
Vasiliy Lomachenko is coming out of retirement and is targeting a return in fall of this yr, sources tell @ringmagazine. Lomachenko’s contract with Top Rank expires today and he’s now a promotional free agent. He only wants the large fights, I’m told, no tuneups. pic.twitter.com/cDlZJ8WCG0
— Mike Coppinger (@MikeCoppinger) May 12, 2026