The stage is set for a high-stakes showdown as three-division world champion Vasiliy Lomachenko and former unified lightweight champion George Kambosos Jr. prepare to battle it out for the vacant IBF lightweight title. The tension was palpable as the two fighters came face to face at the final press conference ahead of their highly anticipated bout, scheduled to take place live from RAC Arena in Perth, Australia on Saturday, May 11 (ET).
Lomachenko, the seasoned Ukrainian star with a record of 17-3 and 11 knockouts, expressed his anticipation for what he expects to be a “very interesting” fight against Kambosos. Despite coming off a unanimous decision loss against Devin Haney, the two-time Olympic gold medalist is determined to return to winning ways and reclaim championship status.
“We have a fight. We prepared very hard. And like I said, it will be very interesting,” Lomachenko remarked, emphasizing his focus on capturing the IBF title and then considering his future in the sport.
Meanwhile, Kambosos Jr. (21-2, 10 KOs), the Australian fighter, exuded confidence as he prepares to face Lomachenko in the ring. Armed with the IBO belt he claimed in a majority decision victory against Maxi Hughes, Kambosos Jr. is determined to prove himself against the seasoned champion.
“I’m extremely confident. I bring that confidence from my preparation. I’ve had a tremendous training camp. The confidence is higher than ever,” Kambosos Jr. stated boldly. “When I beat Lomachenko, there will be no more road for him to go. This is retirement for him.”
The final press conference witnessed an intense faceoff between the two fighters, lasting over three minutes with no intervention. As tensions ran high, Australian heavyweight Lucas Browne attempted to diffuse the situation. With both fighters exuding confidence and determination, the stage is set for an electrifying showdown that promises to captivate fans worldwide.