Interview with Albert Selimov
In a recent exclusive interview with World Boxing News, amateur boxing standout Albert Selimov shared his reflections following the retirement announcement of his long-time rival and renowned fighter, Vasiliy Lomachenko. Lomachenko, who boasts an impressive amateur record of 396 wins and only one loss, recognized Selimov as the sole fighter to have defeated him in the ring. That historic victory occurred during the 2007 World Amateur Championships, marking a significant moment in boxing history that resurfaced when Lomachenko confirmed his retirement.
Lomachenko’s Retirement
Lomachenko addressed his supporters in a heartfelt message, emphasizing the dedication and risk inherent in boxing:
“My dear boxing fans around the world… the man who steps in the ring risks his health for the sake of his family.”
With Lomachenko’s departure from the sport, Selimov’s name made headlines once again, prompting WBN to connect with the 39-year-old athlete. In his comments, Selimov downplayed the impact of Lomachenko’s retirement on his own career trajectory, asserting:
“It’s my choice to retire,”
while acknowledging Lomachenko’s status as a top boxing talent. Reflecting on their encounters, Selimov noted the high quality of their fights:
“He is the best in world boxing, and I can say we fought good fights.”
Career Reflections and Future Perspectives
Their rivalry continued at the 2008 Olympics where Selimov faced Lomachenko again, but ultimately, he did not encounter Lomachenko after losing a rematch in 2013. After failing to qualify for the 2012 London Games, Selimov transitioned to competing for Azerbaijan in the World Series of Boxing, earning a spot in the 2016 Games in Rio, where he was favored to win post his European gold and World silver medals in 2015. Unfortunately, he met his match in the quarter-finals, losing to France’s Sofiane Oumiha.
Discussing his early retirement, Selimov expressed satisfaction with his decision, saying:
“Everything has its time, and after 2016, that was my time.”
He firmly rejected any notion that he should have delayed his exit to aim for the 2020 Olympics, stating unequivocally:
“No, I didn’t think that I retired too soon.”
Selimov also weighed in on the future of Olympic boxing in light of Gennadiy Golovkin’s role as ambassador for the sport ahead of the 2028 LA Games. He expressed optimism about boxing’s continuity in the Olympics:
“I think it’s boxing, and I think it will always be saved. Because without boxing, the Olympic Games will not be Olympic Games. We know that is because boxing is the best sport.”
Life After Boxing
After stepping away from boxing in 2016 at the age of 30, Selimov chose not to pursue a professional career, opting instead to focus on entrepreneurial endeavors while mentoring young athletes. He stated:
“Now I’m a businessman and I help young athletes become better.”
Selimov’s decorated career, characterized by 236 wins and 17 losses, solidifies his legend in the sport, distinct from the narrative of Lomachenko, but no less impressive as he dedicates himself to nurturing the future of boxing.
