Navarrete vs. Lomachenko: WBO President Confirms Potential Showdown

Lomachenko Could Challenge Navarrete for World Title

According to Главком: Gustavo Olivieri, President of the World Boxing Organization (WBO), has revealed that Ukrainian boxer Vasiliy Lomachenko may get the opportunity to fight reigning junior lightweight world champion Emanuel Navarrete. Lomachenko, an Olympic medalist, multi-division titleholder, and WBO super champion, is resuming his professional boxing career. According to Olivieri, if Lomachenko expresses interest in facing Navarrete, the WBO Executive Committee would unanimously approve the matchup, citing his professional achievements.

Potential Opponents for Lomachenko

Lomachenko is interested in a bout against Emanuel Navarrete, who currently holds the WBO and IBF world titles. Navarrete's last fight took place in late February, where he defeated Eduardo Núñez by technical knockout in the 11th round, claiming the IBF belt. Besides Navarrete, another possible opponent for Lomachenko is Gervonta Davis, a former WBA lightweight world champion.

• Negotiations for a fight between Lomachenko and Davis occurred in late 2024 but fell through due to a back injury sustained by Lomachenko and his subsequent retirement from the sport.
• Gervonta Davis last stepped into the ring a year ago against Lamont Roach Jr., with the bout ending in a draw.
• Plans for a Davis fight with Jake Paul were scrapped following domestic violence allegations against Davis.

Additionally, Keyshawn Davis, a former lightweight world champion, has also expressed a desire to fight Lomachenko. News about a potential Lomachenko-Navarrete bout was first reported by journalist Mike Coppinger. The announcement was made via a tweet from the WBO on May 21, 2026.

'Lomachenko is back. If he wants to fight at junior lightweight against Navarrete, I am confident the WBO Executive Committee will unanimously approve it,' said Gustavo Olivieri.

The prospect of a Lomachenko-Navarrete fight has generated significant buzz in the boxing community, given both fighters' extensive experience and recognition in the professional boxing world. Lomachenko's return to the ring after a hiatus and a potential matchup with a current champion could mark a pivotal moment in his career, influencing the trajectory of events in the sport. This bout might also open new doors for Lomachenko within the WBO and other boxing organizations.

As the potential clash between Lomachenko and Navarrete heats up, it's worth noting that former champion Gervonta Davis has also called out Lomachenko, expressing his willingness to face him in Ukraine. This adds another layer of intrigue to Lomachenko's comeback, as he navigates various offers from top contenders. For more details on Davis's challenge and his motivations, check out this article on Davis's call-out to Lomachenko.