Vasyl Lomachenko has left a lasting impression on boxing fans around the world. In fact, the extraordinary nature of his footwork and ring control earned him some truly unique nicknames.
“THE MATRIX” and “HI TECH”
These two nicknames also stemmed from the fact that Lomachenko adopted a training approach that strayed somewhat from traditional boxing methods. We all remember those videos of him performing neurological and cognitive exercises.
As such, it’s clear that Lomachenko helped validate a form of training focused on enhancing cognitive ability to make quick and effective decisions. In this regard, he certainly influenced how boxers train today. But his influence doesn’t stop there!
Photo: Vasyl Lomachenko – MARCA
ENERGY MANAGEMENT DURING A FIGHT
In my view, Lomachenko set the tone for the pace and rhythm of a fight. By alternating between bursts of fast attacks and less intense phases, he was able to stay explosive throughout an entire bout—especially when it mattered most.
This method of boxing (action/recovery) allowed Lomachenko to avoid the trap many fighters fall into—gassing out and becoming defensively vulnerable. On the contrary, by varying intensity in this way, Loma was able to finish all his fights strong. The deeper the fight went, the more he imposed his rhythm and strategy.
DOMINANT IN THE SECOND HALF OF HIS FIGHTS
Vasyl Lomachenko was not the kind of puncher who knocked opponents out with a single blow. Still, he wore them down round after round. At times, he seemed to daze his opponents to the point where they froze, unsure how to deal with such an unorthodox style.
The second half of Lomachenko’s fights was often dazzling. We knew that his already intense pace would sooner or later rise to a crescendo. Against Teofimo Lopez, despite the loss, Loma had several moments in the second half where he overwhelmed his opponent with flurries of punches, leaving him unable to respond.
Then against Devin Haney, the judges’ decision left a bitter taste not only for the fans but for most observers as well. But Lomachenko wasn’t done yet. I believe he found a way to respond to that injustice by accepting one final bout on May 12, 2024, before retiring.
Photo: Vasyl Lomachenko – Olympics.com
A FINAL STATEMENT
Why not face IBF champion George Kambosos—the same man who beat Teofimo Lopez in 2021? As for Haney, Kambosos had gone the distance with him twice. As expected, Loma outclassed and stopped Kambosos.
That TKO victory was surely a balm for Loma. Isn’t that a master’s exit? He got, at least in part, the closure he deserved. I believe it made him a little emotional. It certainly did for me!
Happy retirement, Champ!
