Eaton Thatcher
After his controversial fight last weekend, bantamweight champion Guillermo Rigondeaux (17-0, 11 KOs) floated the idea of a catchweight fight against WBO junior lightweight champ Vasyl Lomachenko (8-1, 6 KOs).
The two fighters are considered by many to be the greatest amateur boxers of all time, and a Lomachenko vs Rigondeaux showdown would be one of the most technical fights in the history of the sport. Both are two-time Olympic Gold medalists who have made a career out of outsmarting and outboxing their opponents.
The fight makes a lot of sense. Both fighters are looking for a big-time opponent, but have struggled to land notable names. They’ve exhausted the talent in their respective weight classes and will soon have to look elsewhere for a worthy opponent.
It may be a difficult fight to put together, though. Lomachenko currently has his eyes set on the heavier weight classes, possibly moving up to lightweight or light welterweight. And then there’s Lomachenko’s promoter, Bob Arum, who will be extremely hesitant to set up the fight. A fight with Rigondeaux may be far too risky for Arum’s liking.
Also, with two weight classes between them, it may be tough for the pair to reach a compromise. Lomachenko is significantly larger than Rigondeaux, and the 5′4 Cuban has never fought beyond super bantamweight (122 pounds).
Both fighters have some unfinished business to take care of first. Lomachenko is looking to avenge his only professional loss with a rematch against Orlando Salido. Meanwhile, Rigo’s knockout win against Moises Flores last weekend was recently overruled and deemed a No Contest.
If the fight were to happen, it would be Rigo’s speed and defensive prowess against Lomachenko’s creativity and movement. I’m tempted to pick Lomachenko over Rigondeaux simply because of his size difference.
There’s still a lot standing in the way of this fight. Lomachenko hasn’t commented on the call-out and seems preoccupied with other prospects at the moment. However, if the demand is there then he’ll definitely give it some serious thought.
Lomachenko vs Rigondeaux Odds
Odds of a Lomachenko and Rigondeaux fight in 2017: 11/9
Odds to win
Vasyl Lomachenko: 2/3
Guillermo Rigondeaux: 31/1
