New York City – In a dramatic return to the squared circle, Vasiliy Lomachenko reasserted his presence in the lightweight division with a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over the spirited Jamaine Ortiz at Madison Square Garden Theatre. After time away from the sport serving in Ukraine’s Territorial Defence forces, the former unified champion proved he’s still a force to be reckoned with, winning on the cards 115-113, 116-112, and 117-111.

Lomachenko, now 34, stepped back into the ring with more than just ring rust to shake off—he was also carrying the weight of national service and months away from elite competition. Ortiz, eight years his junior and physically the bigger man, greeted the returning technician with sharp angles, long-range combinations, and an aggressive opening stanza that saw swelling develop under Lomachenko’s right eye.

The early rounds were a chess match with violence as Ortiz used his height and reach to pepper the Ukrainian with jabs and long right hands. His youth and foot speed gave Lomachenko problems early, disrupting the southpaw’s famed rhythm and making it clear that the American contender had come to win, not just to survive.

But as the middle rounds ticked by, Lomachenko’s legendary ring IQ began to shine through. The two-time Olympic gold medalist adjusted his distance, quickened his angles, and began to land pinpoint left crosses that split Ortiz’s guard. The veteran’s timing and composure began turning the tide, and the momentum swung.

Ortiz remained elusive and game throughout, moving with purpose and firing in bursts. However, the closing rounds saw Lomachenko dig deep. With the crowd roaring, he launched into the final two rounds with the urgency of a man chasing legacy. Combinations flowed, footwork dazzled, and the pace surged as he left no doubt in the judges’ minds.

While the final tallies favoured Lomachenko comfortably, the fight itself told a story of two warriors—one proving he still belongs among the elite, the other showcasing heart and promise in a career-defining performance.

With the win, Lomachenko sets his sights on undisputed lightweight champion Devin Haney. A clash between the master craftsman and the reigning king could be the next blockbuster in a division brimming with talent.

Boxing fans take note—Lomachenko is back, and he’s coming for the crown.