Wladimir Klitschko might make a surprising comeback to boxing and fight a former UFC heavyweight champion at the age of 48.
The former unified heavyweight champion retired from boxing in August 2017, after losing to Anthony Joshua in the 11th round.
Credit: AP
Credit: GETTY
Credit: GETTY
Klitschko has remained in excellent physical condition and there have been rumors about his return to boxing for some time.
Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has stated that Klitschko is a possible opponent for his own return to the boxing ring.
‘The Predator’ mentioned in an interview with Sportsbook Review: “[Rico Verhoeven] could be next, but I’m not sure. I have a few fights in consideration.
I am focusing on a limited number of fights, not just exploring all available possibilities. There are many options. Rico [Verhoeven] is one of them.
Derek Chisora is another option. Wladimir Klitschko could also be an option.”
A fight with Ngannou, who even knocked down Tyson Fury in their recent match, could be one of the most challenging fights of Klitschko’s career.
This is because Ngannou’s striking style is unconventional compared to traditional boxers, and Klitschko has been out of professional boxing for almost ten years.
Turki Alalshikh, a prominent figure in Saudi boxing, is interested in offering Klitschko an opportunity to box again.
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Speaking before Oleksandr Usyk’s rematch with Fury last December, Alalshikh said about Klitschko: “To give him this chance would be perfect.
Of course, he will not fight Usyk if Usyk wins [against Tyson Fury].
Because they are both heroes from Ukraine and they won’t fight each other. This would be a dream.”
However, Klitschko’s priority right now is helping his home country Ukraine in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
‘Dr Steelhammer’ stated: “There are many rumors circulating about a possible comeback.
Currently, my focus is not on returning to boxing, but on ensuring Russians return to their own country, outside of Ukraine.
And to be clear: I have never stopped training. So, if a fight were to happen, I would be ready immediately.
But this weekend, I am just going to watch a fight with a talented Ukrainian boxer. Go Usyk! Glory to Ukraine.”
