Lomachenko has not fought since stopping George Kambosos Jr. in May 2024 to win the IBF lightweight title. He later stepped away from boxing after dealing with physical issues and uncertainty about continuing his career.

The comeback also arrives at a time when major boxing events are increasingly being driven by Saudi money and cross-promotional deals. Lomachenko’s experience, name value, and free-agent status could suddenly make him one of the most attractive options available for fall cards built around established stars and proven international names.

Mike Coppinger reported that Lomachenko is targeting a fall return and wants immediate elite-level fights rather than tune-ups.

The timing of the comeback is significant because the lightweight division has changed dramatically during his absence. Shakur Stevenson has become one of the division’s central figures, while William Zepeda, Lamont Roach Jr., and Jadier Herrera have all moved into major title positions.

Lomachenko’s free-agent status also creates unusual flexibility. Without being tied to Top Rank, he could potentially pursue Riyadh Season fights, one-off deals, or even events linked to Zuffa Boxing as Turki Alalshikh continues reshaping the sport’s biggest cards.

A fight against Gervonta Davis remains one of the biggest commercial possibilities in the division, although Shakur Stevenson may now be the more realistic option given the growing Saudi influence around major lightweight fights.

At 38 years old, Lomachenko would return without the benefit of a tune-up fight, which makes the move risky considering the speed and pressure style currently dominating the lightweight division.

Vasiliy Lomachenko is coming out of retirement and is targeting a return in fall of this year, sources tell @ringmagazine. Lomachenko’s contract with Top Rank expires today and he’s now a promotional free agent. He only wants the big fights, I’m told, no tuneups. pic.twitter.com/cDlZJ8WCG0

— Mike Coppinger (@MikeCoppinger) May 12, 2026