A true legend announced his retirement early today, August 3rd, 2017. Wladimir Klitschko always lived in the shadow of his brother Vitali, but as he evolved over the years, Wlad has become an all time great Heavyweight Champion.
Dominance on his resume include wins over the absolutely under rated Chris Byrd, still top ranked contenders Pulev and Povetkin, and the pride of UK: David Haye. His demolition of legend Hasim Rahman placed him on a pedestal straight to the top of boxing's elite, Wlad never looked back once after winning the WBO and eventual IBF titles.
Although the Green Belt, the WBC Belt, is seen as the leading title to claim as world's best, Wlad was still recognized as the greatest heavyweight in the world with his WBO and IBF belts.
22 straight victories in slightly under 13 years, with 15 coming by way of the stoppage.
Wlad was a master at controlling range and pace, and using his immense power only when necessary. He was always a charismatic gentleman outside the ring, who had this unbreakable confidence. It seems father time was the only true adversary to Steelhammer, but he fought out a beautiful legacy.
He will be remembered for this championship reign, and being one of the few men willing to take on now Heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. Klitschko's last two fights cemented his legacy of fearlessness and determination, in fact he was up on the scorecards and nearly finished the current champion in Joshua before succumbing to blows in the 11th round. Facing a prime Tyson Fury whom no body else wanted to fight shows that Wlad cared more for fighting, than anything else.
Nobody can take away the credentials, nor the admiration fans feel for this Pugilistic wonder. Both brothers are forever cemented in Boxing's Hall of Fame....
Victory is Eternal.