Lomachenko to have shoulder surgery

Lomachenko could still fight again by the end of 2018 if things go well.

WBA “world” lightweight titleholder and top pound-for-pound fighter Vasyl Lomachenko will undergo surgery to repair his right shoulder, ESPN reports, an injury that could have him out of the ring until at least December.

Lomachenko (11-1, 9 KO) stopped Jorge Linares in the 10th round on May 12 to win the belt at 135 pounds, the third division he’s won a world title in thus far as a professional, following title victories at 126 and 130.

He also recently officially vacated his 130-pound belt, the WBO title, indicating he plans to stay at lightweight for the time being.

Lomachenko reportedly suffered the injury during the second round of his win over Linares. From Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who will perform the surgery:

“There is clear evidence that he had a recent dislocation of the shoulder, and the most common injury that happens when there is a dislocation is a tear in the labrum. His is pretty extensive. A typical tear usually goes from about 2 o’clock if you’re looking at the face of a clock down to about 6 o’clock. His goes almost all the way around. I would say he has significant instability of his right shoulder.”

Lomachenko, 30, was initially targeted for a return in August, but the injury will keep him out much longer than that. Dr. ElAttrache believes that Lomachenko could begin training again in October and fight by the end of the year if things go well.