Vasily Lomachenko has responded to a public fight offer from two-weight champion, Shakur Stevenson.
The 35-year-old was once unified in the lightweight division, but lost those belts to Teofimo Lopez before a period of relative inactivity due to the invasion of his country by Russia.
This year he found himself with a shot at the undisputed titles now held by Devin Haney. Haney bested ‘Loma’ on the scorecards – much to the disagreement of many in the sport – and retained his status at the very top.
Haney is now looking at a mandatory defence against Stevenson, but the talks don’t seem to be progressing well. With that in mind, the Newark native recently reached out to Lomachenko.
“Yo Vasily Lomachenko. Nothing but respect champ [you] deserved them belts, I hope [you] healed up and everything is all good with you. I think it’s time for a REAL high skill level chess I’m ready for a big fight champ, let’s make something happen.”
Lomachenko said thanks but no thanks – still angling for the rematch he strongly believes he deserves.
“Shakur thank you! I am ok! But I’m sorry I have unfinished business with Devin Haney.”
The Ukrainian’s team have sent letters to all four governing bodies to push for the second fight, but how realistic an option it is for the champion remains to be seen.
Stevenson for one doesn’t believe it happens – just like he’s dubious of his own mandatory shot materialising.
“I understand champ but if he ducks you like he’s ducking me it only make sense for us to get it in.”
Fans would welcome the bout between two elite operators, and a chance to see if the man once regarded by many as the best fighter in the sport still has what it takes to mix it with the future of the lightweight division.
What happens next lies with Haney. Should he vacate his belts and move up in weight, there’s a good chance Stevenson finds himself fighting for the WBC title in his next bout. Lomachenko may just be the man chosen for the other corner.