Following Lomachenko’s return to boxing – a unanimous decision victory over a game Jamaine Franklin – the man he wants next stepped in the ring to being negotiations.
The former champion from Ukraine’s performance got better as the rounds went on and the rust was shaken off. It’s no surprise, considering he’s been in his country helping to fight against Russia’s invasion rather than the gym. Whilst Ortiz certainly tested Lomachenko, levels were shown by the final bell.
Now, ‘The Matrix’ is clear in what he wants – a shot at the undisputed lightweight titles. It just so happens that the young man who can give him that shot, Devin Haney, was in attendance and willing to step in the ring post-fight.
Their conversation, as posted by Top Rank, went something like this. First of all, Haney wasn’t overly impressed with the performance but believes he’ll bring out the best in ‘Loma.’
“I think it wasn’t the best performance but I know if me and Loma were to fight, a better version would be on [display] that night. But congratulations, and hopefully we can get it on.”
Lomachenko seemed to acknowledge it wasn’t a vintage display, but ensured fans he would be ‘ready’ for Haney.
“I’m ready – Look, I’m ready for any option.”
Haney, settling into his role as champion just one defence in, appreciated the fact that a challenger would bow to any demands he might have.
“That’s what I like to hear. I took a risk. I went over to Australia twice. Everything that George Kambosos mandated of me I signed up for, so we’ll see when we got to negotiate it.”
Finally, Lomachenko praised Haney before the two went their separate ways.
“He is a tough fighter. That’s why he is undisputed world champion.”
Loma & Haney share the ring post-fight 👀 pic.twitter.com/dA039ms7py
— Top Rank Boxing (@trboxing) October 30, 2022
With one fight left in Devin Haney’s deal with Top Rank, it seems that something very surprising would have to happen for us not to see this fight next. However, what was surprising to most was the size difference between the two, something that even the Ukrainian seemed shocked by:
“This lightweight? Is this lightweight? He is heavyweight! I will be ready. I told you be for I’m ready and I’m ready for any option.”
Look at the size difference. This won’t go well for Lomachenko pic.twitter.com/F6OOCFRC9c
— Dan Canobbio (@DanCanobbio) October 30, 2022
Haney for sure, too much of a size difference
— MB (@mbristow387) October 30, 2022
Look at the size difference between Haney and Loma
— ★Ibii★ (@IbiAli25) October 30, 2022