IBF lightweight champion Vasiliy Lomachenko has called time on his boxing career but it now leaves his title up for grabs.
Lomachenko won the IBF strap May last year against George Kambsos Jr but has not defended or fought since.
He announced his retirement from the sport with a video on social media.
The 37-year-old said: “I am thankful that, as my career comes to an end, I have generated clarity about the direction a person must take in order to achieve true victory.
“Not just in the ring but in the whole self. Only then can one achieve their true reward.”
But he also made sure to send a thanks to his supporters who have been there every step of the way.
“I would also be remiss not to thank my dear boxing fans around the world,” he said.
“You have always supported me with passion for over a decade. I hope you continue to respect and love this sport.”
But focus will now shift to who is in line to pick up the prestigious mantle after the retirement of a legend.
Who is the next IBF champion?
Fortunately, the absence of Lomachenko has meant the IBF have already taken action to find a new title holder.
Raymond Muratalla is the current IBF interim lightweight champion after a unanimous decision win over Zaur Abdullaev.
After picking up the accolade in May, this puts him in a prime position to become full world champion.
Muratalla spoke to DAZN about the prospect of this last month, he said: “Yeah, I definitely want the full status.
“You know, that’s the goal, but you know, I gotta earn it, too.”
Sadly he will not be able to test himself against ‘dream’ opponent Lomachenko but elevation to full status is coming.
A huge IBF eliminator in July
It may not be too long when we find out the next in line for a shot at the potential new champion.
Olympic standout Andy Cruz is scheduled to face Japan’s Hironori Mishiro in an eliminator for a shot at the title.
The winner of this will become mandated to face the ‘Danger’ likely by the end of the year.
Cruz himself is fully focused on coming out victorious.
He said: “I’ve put in the hard work and dedication, and I can’t wait to step into the ring again.
“This fight isn’t just about winning; it’s about showing my people the passion I have for the sport. I’m ready to prove that I’m a contender and bring that win home.”
A victory here for the Cuban could mean becoming world champion in under 10 fights – similar to the now retired champion.
Featured image credit to Embed from Getty Images
