Emanuel Navarrete ready for Vasiliy Lomachenko challenge

Emanuel Navarrete said he is prepared to face Vasiliy Lomachenko after the Ukrainian announced his return from retirement with his sights on the Mexican's IBF and WBO junior lightweight titles.

Lomachenko plans a fall comeback and has no interest in tune-up fights, according to The Ring's initial report. The WBO told the same outlet it would sanction a Navarrete-Lomachenko bout if both sides agreed. Navarrete, who stopped Eduardo Nunez in December to unify the 130-pound division, told ESPN Knockout he is ready for the test.

"Lomachenko suddenly comes out of retirement and suddenly says that he's going for everything," Navarrete said. "I think Lomachenko's career is something very special and very exceptional. I'm ready to take on challenges."

WBO mandatory fight looms before Lomachenko bout

Navarrete must first satisfy his obligation to face WBO mandatory challenger Charly Suarez. The 31-year-old champion holds a 40-2-1 record with 33 knockouts and has won world titles in three weight classes.

Lomachenko has not fought since stopping George Kambosos for the vacant IBF lightweight belt in May 2024. The 38-year-old retired more than a year later, citing a loss of motivation following his disputed decision defeat to Devin Haney in 2023. His 18-3 record includes two Olympic gold medals and world titles at featherweight, super featherweight and lightweight.

Navarrete said a clash with the southpaw legend would require specific preparation. "I'm super happy if it happens," he told ESPN. "Obviously I'm going to do a special camp. He's a southpaw and he's great. He's a great fighter."

No timeline has been set for either the Suarez defense or a potential Lomachenko fight.

Source: ringmagazine.com