Ukrainian Boxer Vasyl Lomachenko Claims IBF Lightweight World Title
Ukrainian boxer Vasyl Lomachenko (18-3, 12 KOs) secured victory in a bout against former undisputed world champion from Australia, George Kambosos (21-3, 10 KOs), for the International Boxing Federation (IBF) lightweight title, as reported by Ukrinform.
The fight took place at RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, and concluded prematurely in the 11th round. Right from the start, Lomachenko controlled the centre of the ring. His opponent attempted counterattacks throughout. Lomachenko's attacks in the early rounds were more accurate, while Kambosos aimed for body shots against the Ukrainian.
With each round, Lomachenko increased his advantage, maintaining initiative and completely dominating Kambosos. Thus, the first six rounds showcased Lomachenko's total dominance in the ring. Lomachenko's powerful strikes hit their mark, causing cuts around Kambosos's right eye, but the Australian continued to target Lomachenko's body.
In the seventh round, the Ukrainian sent his opponent to the canvas with a knockdown. However, George Kambosos managed to rise and continue the fight.
During the championship rounds, George Kambosos sought opportunities, attacking Lomachenko with desperate energy and hoping to score a knockout. However, the Ukrainian denied him any chances and sent him to the canvas twice in the 11th round. After the third knockdown, the referee stopped the fight, declaring Vasyl Lomachenko the winner.
"This title and this fight are for my father. I want to say that I am very grateful to him and appreciate him. He trained me, prepared me, and deserved this - this belt is for my father," the Ukrainian champion stated after the fight.
Responding to the interviewer's question about his immediate plans, Vasyl Lomachenko expressed his desire to return home and spend time with his family.
It's worth noting that in his previous fight in May 2023, Lomachenko lost to WBC, IBF, WBA Super, and WBO titleholder Devin Haney (30-0, 15 KOs) and couldn't become the undisputed world champion. The lightweight bout in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Garden Arena went the full 12 rounds, ending in a unanimous decision for Devin Haney, 116–112, 115–113, 115–113.