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Vasiliy Lomachenko shocks the world by announcing his retirement
Vasiliy Lomachenko has announced his retirement from boxing in an emotional video.
The mercurial Ukrainian, arguably the greatest amateur of all time, has called time on his career following an incredible run that brought numerous highs.
A two-time Olympic gold medalist, Lomachenko turned professional in 2013 and would fight for a world title in just his second fight against Orlando Salido.
Lomachenko was narrowly beaten but his wait for world honours would not go on much longer as won the WBO featherweight title in fight number three against Gary Russell.
He would go on to win further world titles at super-featherweight and lightweight, but a 2020 loss to Teofimo Lopez during lockdown halted his momentum.
A third career defeat, this time a controversial one against Devin Haney, might have spelt the end for some fighters, but Lomachenko’s quest for another world title would not have an unhappy ending.
In 2024, he travelled to Australia to outclass and stop George Kambosos to win the IBF crown.
"I am grateful for every defeat and victory, both in the ring and in life. I am thankful that, as my career comes to an end, I have generated clarity about the direction a person must take in order to achieve true victory," said Lomachenko on his Instagram account.
"Not just in the ring but in the whole self. Only then can one achieve their true reward. I thank God for my honest and kind parents for their care, love and warmth throughout my life.
"My father [and trainer Anatoly Lomachenko] not only taught me the art of boxing but also how to be a role model for my own children, the same way he has been for me. I have made many mistakes in life and in the gym, but he was always by my side.
"Dear Egis [Klimas], thank you for everything you have done for me and my family. You are a man who knows his craft. The best manager in the world, who became a friend and part of our family. Your professionalism goes hand in hand with your character...
"I want to thank Top Rank and Mr Bob Arum for the amazing opportunity to showcase my abilities in boxing...I would also be remiss not to thank my dear boxing fans around the world.
"You have always supported me with passion for over a decade. I hope you continue to respect and love this sport...Peace to all, may the lord bless his people."
Lomachenko leaves the sport with a 18-3 record as well as an amateur ledger that reads 396-1. Everyone at DAZN News wishes him the very best with whatever comes next.
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