.png)
Vasiliy Lomachenko, 35, is conscious that he might never again have the chance to compete for the undisputed lightweight title against Devin Haney at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on May 20. The fight will be broadcast live on ESPN+ pay-per-view.
“This chance, this fight, is the biggest moment of my professional career. This is my last chance [to win an undisputed title]. I don't want to talk about the future. We don't know the result [yet against Haney],” Lomachenko said in an interview with BoxingScene.com and other reporters.
“Yes [this is the most excited I've been for a fight]. Because it's too close. I'll be honest, this is my last chance to be an undisputed world champion. That's why it's very important.”
Lomachenko (17-2, 11 KOs) is a three-division champion who has won titles at 126, 130, and 135 pounds. He has earned gold for Ukraine at the Olympics twice.
According to Lomachenko, being declared the undisputed champion would be equivalent to earning a gold medal. "I have big motivation, and that's my goal, to win the undisputed title,” said Lomachenko.
In order to prevail over Haney (29-0, 15 KOs), Lomachenko will have to surmount significant size disadvantages in order to further enhance his resume and advance his quest for the Hall of Fame.
Lomachenko defeated Jamaine Ortiz by unanimous decision in October despite obviously losing several rounds. The scores were 117-111, 116-112, and 115-113.
“Look, everybody forgets about preparation, and that Jamaine was [previously was] my sparring partner. We had a lot of rounds with him,” said Lomachenko. “He absolutely knew me very well. But it is what it is. I agreed to fight him. He's a very talented and fast boxer. I think Jamaine Ortiz will be a big problem for any fighter in our weight classes.”