Vasiliy Lomachenko is now 38 years old but is close to making a surprising ring return.

The three-division world champion has a record of 18 wins, 12 by knockout and three defeats, and he has not fought since claiming the IBF lightweight title against George Kambosos Jnr in May 2024.

At his best, Lomachenko was one of the most entertaining boxers on the planet with incredible footwork honed through years of dancing as a child, quick hands and unreal angles.

He was also one of the most successful amateur boxers of all time with a record of 396 wins and just one loss.

Lomachenko fought for a world title in just his second pro fight, and though he lost to veteran Orlando Salido, he won the WBO strap in his third contest by beating Gary Russell Jr.

His other two losses came at the top level against Teofimo Lopez and Devin Haney and the Ukrainian, having teased a comeback before, is now being lined up for a return after moving towards a multi-fight arrangement with Top Rank promoter Bob Arum.

According to reports on Boxing Scene, Lomachenko and Charly Suarez are closing in on a February 13 showdown, with the winner expected to earn a shot at newly crowned three-belt junior lightweight champion O’Shaquie Foster. The main outstanding issue is the venue, with both camps hoping to stage the fight in Las Vegas.

Suarez is also 38 and unbeaten with a record of 19-0 (11 KOs). The Filipino stopped Manuel Avila in the first round in July, having been denied a controversial result against Emanuel Navarrete two months earlier.

A disputed ruling over a cut caused by an accidental head clash led to Navarrete being awarded a technical decision, despite Suarez’s punch having opened the wound.