Vasiliy Lomachenko is targeting Anthony Cacace for a world title fight at 130 pounds, but the WBA champion’s existing commitments could force him to take another route for his comeback.
Lomachenko is reportedly targeting Cacace, according to Lance Pugmire, but the champion is scheduled to defend against Nick Ball on December 19 in Belfast. That leaves Lomachenko looking toward a fighter who already has an opponent, with another title obligation waiting afterward.
The attraction is clear. Lomachenko wants to become undisputed at super featherweight, and Cacace holds the WBA belt he would need. However, identifying the desired opponent is easier than finding room in that opponent’s schedule.
The WBA has authorized Cacace to make a voluntary defense before the end of the year, then requires the winner to face Elnur Samedov. Even if Cacace beats Ball, Lomachenko cannot assume he will get the next opportunity. Samedov’s position would have to be addressed before that fight could happen.
Meanwhile, Boxing News reported on October 2 that Lomachenko’s return is being planned for November 20 in Las Vegas. The report named no opponent, making Cacace look more like a subsequent target than the man waiting for him in his first fight back.
That could be a useful approach for Lomachenko. Returning at 130 would give him an opportunity to see how he performs at the lower weight after his lengthy absence before committing to a championship fight. It would also give his team time to see whether Cacace retains the belt.
The difficulty is the waiting. A comeback bout would address Lomachenko’s inactivity, but it would not resolve the WBA title queue. He could win his return and still need another fight while Cacace or Ball handles Samedov.
Lomachenko’s undisputed ambition gives the comeback a purpose. Whether he can pursue it quickly depends on access to the champions, and Cacace’s schedule already presents an obstacle.