At times, while observing Vasiliy Lomachenko’s performances, it is inevitable to question if his ambition and the overwhelming pressure to seek new challenges have tarnished what could have been an immaculate, perhaps flawless, track record.
One could argue that this is simply the nature of the game, where every boxer must weigh the risks against the rewards. However, with Lomachenko’s record of 18-3 (12), there is a sense that his professional journey reflects more the pressure he faces to continuously challenge himself rather than solely showcasing his exceptional skills in the boxing ring. Unlike a more stubborn fighter, Lomachenko has never taken the easy way out by refusing tests or turning a blind eye. This was evident in his first world title fight against Orlando Salido in only his second pro bout, as well as when he moved from featherweight to super-featherweight and eventually to lightweight, all in the pursuit of excitement and giving others an opportunity.
Now at lightweight, where he has been since 2018, Lomachenko is a champion (IBF) again. That, to anyone who has ever watched Lomachenko perform will come as no surprise, but when taking into account the fact he is now 36, and that he has also just beaten an Australian in Australia, this latest achievement of Lomachenko’s takes on new and greater meaning. Indeed, for some it represents his swansong; either his final achievement or the springboard to what will become his final achievement.
There was never any question about Lomachenko’s victory over George Kambosos, as those familiar with Lomachenko’s skill knew he would come out on top. However, the manner in which Lomachenko dominated and stopped the Australian in the 11th round was reminiscent of some of his greatest triumphs. This performance gives hope that Lomachenko still possesses his exceptional abilities.
In round 11, Lomachenko delivered an impressive finish, especially considering his status as a lightweight. Having made early investments and with Kambosos already injured and bloodied, Lomachenko mercilessly landed a powerful southpaw left hand to his opponent’s body. This caused Kambosos to turn away and take a knee. Despite his bravery, Kambosos was unable to defend himself or protect that vulnerable spot on his body when the fight resumed. Consequently, Lomachenko relentlessly attacked Kambosos, focusing solely on delivering left hand punches to his midsection. The referee ultimately intervened, and Lomachenko celebrated his victory.
Mikey Williams from Top Rank captures the moment when Lomachenko executes a powerful left-hand punch.
The most encouraging aspect of tonight’s event, particularly for those who admire Lomachenko, was the manner in which he finished the fight. By aggressively pursuing Kambosos and not settling for a decision victory, Lomachenko demonstrated that he possesses both the skill and determination to impress and take risks. Even though it is always risky to seek a conclusive finish, especially in a lopsided contest like tonight’s, Lomachenko remains willing to embrace such challenges. It is possible that he is still haunted by his previous fight, a narrow loss to Devin Haney, and wanted to ensure absolute victory this time. Perhaps Lomachenko is beginning to doubt the judges and boxing fans’ ability to truly comprehend and appreciate the sport.
For those who do understand, there aren’t many sights as alluring as Lomachenko on song. Few fighters, whether the ones currently active or ones from the past, can match his level of technical prowess and few fighters can boast his array of punches, either. Few fighters, in fact, are able to match Lomachenko in any department, which is precisely why, in order to somewhat level the playing field, the Ukrainian has spent his career handicapping himself and giving opponents certain advantages (usually in weight, or timing) to ensure his fights are remotely interesting and competitive.
Lomachenko, you see, is just that good. He has, in fact, always been that good. Capable of beating world-class fighters from day one of his professional career, one of the only questions surrounding him these days is this: Was/is he too good for his own good? Meaning, it’s hard to imagine a fighter as seemingly perfect as Vasiliy Lomachenko sporting anything but a perfect record (all things being equal), yet 18-3 is clearly not an accurate representation of perfection. Which, in turn, begs a follow-up question: Is it in the end only Lomachenko’s innate desire to entertain and test himself that has seen him suffer setbacks and occasionally bite off more than he can chew?
Perhaps. Nonetheless, it is Lomachenko’s innate desire to entertain and challenge himself that renders him a fighter who is not only enjoyable to watch but also worthy of admiration.
