‘The Matrix’ Bids Farewell to the Ring: Vasiliy Lomachenko Retires at Age 37. Is It the Right Time?

Vasiliy Lomachenko, widely known as “The Matrix”, has officially retired from boxing at the age of 37, closing the book on one of the most brilliant and unorthodox careers in the history of the sport. The Ukrainian southpaw leaves behind a legacy defined by technical mastery, fearless ambition, and a resume few can rival — both in the amateurs and the professional ranks.

A Legendary Amateur Career: 396 Wins, 1 Loss, 2 Olympic Golds

Before he ever turned professional, Lomachenko’s legend was already firmly established. His amateur record stands as one of the most jaw-dropping stats in boxing history: 396 wins and only 1 loss. That single defeat? Avenged — in dominant fashion — just months later.

Representing Ukraine, Lomachenko captured two Olympic gold medals: one in Beijing 2008 (Featherweight) and another in London 2012 (Lightweight). His blend of speed, movement, timing, and balance made him a puzzle no opponent could solve. His amateur dominance was such that many already regarded him as a future all-time great before he even entered the pro ranks.

A Fast-Tracked Pro Career: Greatness from the Beginning

When Lomachenko entered the professional boxing world, he refused to take the traditional slow build. Instead, he demanded to face elite-level competition immediately. In just his second pro fight, he challenged for a world title against seasoned veteran Orlando Salido. Though he lost a controversial split decision in a dirty, low-blow-filled affair, it only fueled his fire.

By his third fight, Lomachenko won the WBO Featherweight Title, tying the record for the fewest fights needed to become a world champion. What followed was a historic journey through weight classes:

• Featherweight Champion (126 lbs)

• Super Featherweight Champion (130 lbs)

• Lightweight Champion (135 lbs)

With his footwork, angles, and combination punching, Lomachenko made top-tier opponents look ordinary. He frustrated fighters into submission, often making them quit on the stool — hence the nickname “No Mas Chenko.”

Pound-for-Pound Greatness

For several years, Lomachenko was widely considered one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the world. His performances were must-watch television. Fans were mesmerized not just by his dominance, but by the creativity and fluidity he brought into the ring.

He wasn’t just winning — he was inventing new ways to move, spinning around opponents, and throwing combinations with precision that bordered on superhuman. He wasn’t called “The Matrix” for nothing. Watching Lomachenko was like watching boxing redefined.

Highs and Setbacks: A Warrior’s Journey

Despite his brilliance, Lomachenko’s career wasn’t without adversity. He lost his lightweight titles in a razor-thin decision to Teofimo Lopez in 2020, a fight where he started slow but came on strong late. Some blamed injury, others his strategy — but Loma never made excuses.

He returned with convincing wins, once again showcasing his skills, and eventually regained the IBF Lightweight title in 2024 by outboxing rising star George Kambosos Jr. That win marked a return to form, proving he could still compete at the highest level despite being in his mid-30s.

In what would become his final appearance, Lomachenko looked vintage, reminding fans why he was once viewed as untouchable. But following the bout, speculation swirled about whether he would continue. Now, we have our answer.

Why Lomachenko’s Retirement Matters

Lomachenko walks away from boxing as a three-weight world champion, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, and an icon of technical brilliance. Few fighters in history have combined amateur dominance, rapid pro ascension, and artistic ring IQ in the way he did.

He inspired a new generation of boxers, both in Ukraine and globally. Young fighters studied his footwork in slow motion. Coaches around the world rewired training methods to emulate his movement patterns. He wasn’t just a champion — he was a paradigm shift.

His retirement also marks the end of an era for boxing purists. In a sport often dominated by brawlers and knockout artists, Lomachenko reminded fans that finesse, intelligence, and rhythm could be just as devastating.

Tributes Pour In from the Boxing World

As soon as the retirement was confirmed, tributes poured in from around the globe.

Teofimo Lopez, who defeated him in 2020, said:
“No matter the outcome of our fight, I’ve always respected what Loma brought to the game. He made all of us better.”

Andre Ward, retired undefeated champion, tweeted:
“One of the most gifted fighters I’ve ever seen. Thank you for the masterclasses, Loma.”

Even Manny Pacquiao, a legend in his own right, posted:
“A true artist in the ring. Enjoy retirement, champion.”

What’s Next for Loma?

Lomachenko has hinted at wanting to give back to the sport, potentially by training or mentoring young fighters in Ukraine. He’s also been deeply affected by the war in his home country and has spent time supporting Ukrainian efforts on the ground.

His legacy, however, is cemented. Whether he returns to boxing in a different capacity or disappears into a well-earned private life, his impact will endure.

A Career Worth Celebrating

Vasiliy Lomachenko’s journey through boxing was a story of genius, risk-taking, and evolution. From dominating the amateur scene with a record of 396–1 to capturing world titles in three weight classes, he accomplished more in fewer fights than most do in a lifetime.

As he steps away from the sport, one truth remains clear:
Boxing will never forget “The Matrix.”