Vitali Klitschko has vacated the WBC heavyweight title. It has been 15 months since the 42-year-old last defended the title.
The WBC has appointed Klitschko to “champion emeritus” status meaning if he chooses to return he could immediately invoke a title shot.
“I want to thank the WBC and its president, Don Jose Sulaiman, for the support in our fight for democracy and freedom in Ukraine,” Klitschko said. “It was and is a great honor to hold the WBC title, and I’ve always done it with pride. The offer of the WBC gives me the theoretical possibility to return to the boxing ring, which I cannot imagine at all to the current state.
“Right now, my full concentration is on politics in Ukraine, and I feel that the people need me there. My brother [and unified heavyweight champion] Wladimir will ensure more sporting success and I will, as always, support him as much as he currently supports me in my political fight.”
Klitschko vacated the WBC title in 2005 after suffering back and knee injuries. He later turned and won the title back in 2008.
If this is the end of the road Klitschko ends his career with a 45-2 record and 41 KOs.
