Former three-division undisputed world champion Vasiliy Lomachenko has taken another step toward returning to professional boxing. According to Sport RBC.UA citing journalist Dan Rafael, the Ukrainian will sign a new agreement with promotional company Top Rank, and his first bout after the hiatus is scheduled for February 2027. Thus, following his retirement announcement in the summer of 2026, the 38-year-old boxer is officially resuming his career.
New Contract and February Return
As Rafael reported on social network X, he "spoke at length" with Top Rank head Bob Arum, who confirmed that the company is finalizing a new agreement with Lomachenko. According to the promoter, the Ukrainian will return to the ring in February to face Filipino fighter Charly Suarez. This will mark the boxer's first official bout since his last appearance in the spring of 2024, when he defeated George Kambosos and captured the IBF lightweight world title.
Charly Suarez as the First Opponent
Choosing Charly Suarez as the initial opponent after a long layoff looks logical: he is a proven fighter who will allow Lomachenko to regain his form without excessive risk. The bout itself will kick off a new stage in the Ukrainian's career, as he previously stated his intention to contend for the undisputed world championship once again. Promoter Alexander Krassyuk, in turn, explained the boxer's motives for returning after he announced his retirement in the summer of 2026 due to back problems.
Prospect of a Title Fight with Foster
Rafael also passed along Arum's words that if he defeats Suarez, Lomachenko will likely face O'Shaquie Foster in a title fight. Previously, the Ukrainian was linked to a bout against the winner of the Emanuel Navarrete and O'Shaquie Foster matchup; Foster emerged victorious in that duel and is now considered Lomachenko's potential next opponent in a championship match. Consequently, the February fight against Suarez could serve as a direct springboard to a world title bout.
Context: The Path to Return
Following his victory over Kambosos in 2024, Lomachenko did not fight and later announced his retirement, citing back issues. Now, according to Top Rank, the boxer is finally making an official return to professional boxing, with the new chapter starting precisely with the bout against Suarez. For the 38-year-old champion, who previously agreed to face a reigning world champion, this comeback could mark the final major cycle of his career, aimed at restoring his status as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters.
