Vasyl Lomachenko to end retirement for ‘big fight’ as planned return date emerges

Vasyl Lomachenko has gone back on his to decision to retire and will return in 2026.

The Ukrainian legend elected to hang up his gloves last year, one year on from his victory over George Kambosos Jr in 2024.

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Prior to his retirement, Lomachenko had been in talks for some blockbuster fights including a clash with Gervonta Davis.

But he decided to call time on his career, although that will now be short-lived.

According to Ring Magazine, it has been confirmed that Lomachenko will now look to make a comeback this year.

The former world champion will end his two-year hiatus, but is not looking for a warm-up fight.

For the 38-year-old, a return is all about the big fights, and he wants the most commercially viable names.

And a return is being targeted for the fall [final quarter of 2026], after he returns to a full training camp.

Lomachenko is now a promotional free agent after his agreement with Top Rank ended in May.

And his return to the divisions will be a huge boost, with interest from Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh potentially on the cards.

‘The Matrix’ remains a huge name in the sport, and a popular character, having dazzled in the ring with his incredible speed and skills.

A pound-for-pound leading operator in his prime, Lomachenko will hope to return to the upper echelons of the sport, despite closing in on his final years of physical prime.

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Who could Lomachenko fight?

Several big fights could lay in the wait for the veteran, providing some of the biggest names return.

A clash with Davis could be on the cards now, given the American is in advanced talks to return this year.

Shakur Stevenson reacted to the news with excitement, and he could be an option if he chooses to move back down.

Rematches with Devin Haney and Teofimo Lopez now seem unlikely given they have graduated to the welterweight division.

Several champions including Raymond Murtalla and Abdullah Mason could be on the cards instead.

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