That freedom dramatically changes the options available to him. Instead of being limited by promotional politics, Lomachenko can now pursue the biggest 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 one of boxing’s most accomplished technicians, but also one of the sport’s most valuable free agents. His decision to skip tune-up fights suggests he believes there is still 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 such as 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 biggest 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 first time in years. Lomachenko plans on returning in the fall and wants a “big” fight without a 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 former three-division champion stepped away from boxing, citing emotional exhaustion and uncertainty about continuing his career.
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 one of boxing’s most accomplished technicians and one of the sport’s biggest free agents. His decision to avoid tune-up fights suggests he still views himself as capable of competing immediately at the elite level despite the lengthy layoff.
The lightweight division has changed significantly during his absence, with Shakur Stevenson, William Zepeda, Lamont Roach Jr., and Jadier Herrera all moving into major title positions while Davis remains one of the sport’s biggest attractions.
Vasiliy Lomachenko is coming out of retirement and is targeting a return in fall of this year, sources tell @ringmagazine. Lomachenko’s contract with Top Rank expires today and he’s now a promotional free agent. He only wants the big fights, I’m told, no tuneups. pic.twitter.com/cDlZJ8WCG0
— Mike Coppinger (@MikeCoppinger) May 12, 2026
Read the full article here
