Editor’s note: This article was originally posted on DAZN.com.
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Vasiliy Lomachenko has apologized to his fans after losing to Teofimo Lopez Jr. this past Saturday in Las Vegas, and offered some insight into what the future holds.
The Ukrainian was defeated for the first time since he lost a split decision to then-featherweight titleholder Orland Salido in his second pro fight.
Lomachenko (14-2, 10 KOs) hasn’t said much since the fight, but on Thursday he told 112 Ukraine: “It is always challenging to comment on something right after the fight. I would like to watch the fight first and then say something.
“Getting closer [to Lopez] was quite a challenge. The size, the reach played a huge role. I would like to apologize to everyone, apologize to my team, and thank you for all the support.”
Lomachenko also admitted that a potential rematch against Lopez (16-0, 12 KOs) is out of his hands.
“It depends on him,” he said. “If he can give me a rematch, then, of course, I am ready.”
Lopez’s team offered little hope of a second fight. The champion’s manager, David McWater, said that while Lopez might remain at lightweight for a while, a rematch makes little sense to them.
“I can’t imagine a rematch,” McWater said. “Older guy never wins a rematch. If they fight again, Teofimo would hurt him badly. I don’t think Loma brings enough viewers to the table to pay both guys.”
Lomachenko’s promoter, Egis Klimas, confirmed this week that the fighter had surgery on his right shoulder Monday.
He said the injury was a combination of a pre-existing problem and further aggravation sustained in the second round against Lopez. It’s the second time the 32-year-old has gone under the knife for his shoulder. The first time was in May 2018.
“When he arrived in the States to prepare for the fight, he said in Ukraine he felt the sharp pain in his right shoulder,” Klimas said. “We took him right away to Dr. [Neal] ElAttrache to examine him.”
ElAttrache oversaw his operation in 2018.
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