Vasiliy Lomachenko the merciful takes decision over Richard Commey

Vasiliy Lomachenko proved he’s still a top lightweight with a commanding performance against Richard Commey at Madison Square Garden.

Vasiliy Lomachenko disappointed against Teofimo Lopez in 2020 when he dropped a decision and his lightweight titles, but he looked masterful against former champion Richard Commey on Dec. 11 from Madison Square Garden in Top Rank’s main event.

Lomachenko (16-2, 11 KOs) gave away the first half of the fight against Lopez. He didn’t make that mistake against Commey. He came out more active in the early rounds and heated up quickly.

Lomachenko showcased his trademark footwork and hand speed and moved like a ghost around Commey, who was befuddled for most of the fight. Lomachenko looked much younger than his 33 years, and he also showed his power in the process.

Commey (30-4, 27 KOs) took a lot of punishment and was nearly finished in round 7. Lomachenko rocked Commey with a left hand that sent Commey flat on his back. Commey got to his feet, but his legs were shot.

Vasiliy Lomachenko dropped Richard Commey in round 7 and dominated the action over 12 rounds

Lomachenko pleaded with Commey’s corner to stop the fight and connected with several more shots as Commey struggled to stay on his feet. Commey’s right leg gave out several times, and Lomachenko looked at the referee and Commey’s corner and again asked them to stop the fight, but the bell rang, and the bout continued.

The doctor checked out Commey before round 8 but allowed him to continue. Lomachenko took round 8 off, which allowed Commey to clear his head. Lomachenko easily outboxed Commey for the remainder of the fight but appeared content to coast to a points win.

Even though Lomachenko beat Commey up, he respected the former IBF champion. The fight went the full 12 rounds, and the judges returned scores of 117-111 and two of 119-108 for Lomachenko.

Lomachenko has two convincing victories since his loss to Lopez and is still an elite lightweight. He has the goods and potential to regain a world title if given the opportunity.