Vasiliy Lomachenko wants to make his comeback at super featherweight in 2027, eyeing an immediate collision with O’Shaquie Foster for three world titles. Stepping directly into a fight of that magnitude following a layoff of over two years represents a massive gamble.
In an interview with DAZN, Lomachenko revealed plans to end his retirement and target the victor of the unification clash. Foster then took care of business, outpointing Emanuel Navarrete to collect the WBC, IBF, and WBO belts at 130 pounds.
Lomachenko (18-3, 12 KOs) long maintained that 135 pounds was north of his natural fighting weight. Returning to super featherweight pits him against men his own physical dimensions. Yet, the calendar tells a harsh story: Lomachenko has not made 130 pounds since forcing Guillermo Rigondeaux to retire on his stool in December 2017. He was 29 years old on that night. He turns 39 this coming February.
“During the preparation, it looks very good, but nobody knows what will happen after another month or two of preparation,” Lomachenko admitted.
That physical reality demands scrutiny before any title clash gets finalized. Lomachenko built his legendary status on dazzling footwork, laser reflexes, and suffocating punch volume. Dropping five pounds will not magically restore those physical gifts after such an extensive absence from competition.
Foster presents a nightmare stylistic exam for an aging ring master. His victory over Navarrete showcased frustrating defensive elusiveness, slick counterpunching, and lateral movement. Lomachenko cannot afford his trademark reconnaissance rounds against a mobile champion who racks up points from distance.
The championship math matters as well. Foster currently holds three titles rather than the full undisputed collection, with the WBA strap still elsewhere. How the division shakes out over the coming months will dictate exactly what sits on the table when Lomachenko officially makes his move.
Lomachenko has not boxed since May 2024, when he broke down George Kambosos Jr. in Australia to capture the IBF lightweight crown. The desire to compete remains potent. Taking an interim tune-up bout before stepping directly into Foster’s sights would tell boxing, and Lomachenko, whether his reflexes can still match his ambitions.
When an elite fighter sits out from May 2024 until 2027, the biological clock does not pause. Lomachenko dropping back down to 130 pounds after a decade away from the division introduces extreme physical stress on an aging body.
Bypassing a tune-up saves wear in the gym, but walking straight into a unification against a rangy, prime champion after years of inactivity leaves zero margin for error.