Klitschkos want all titles under one name

0 CommentsPrint E-mail China Daily, April 15, 2010
Adjust font size:

Vladimir Klitschko believes it is time for him and his brother Vitali to unite the world heavyweight titles under one name.

Vladimir holds the WBO, IBF and IBO belts, Vitali is the WBC champion and Britain's David Haye has his grip on the WBA title.

"It is now time to unite all belts under one name - the Klitschko name," Vladimir told Reuters by telephone from Los Angeles.

The two brothers will not fight each other, which means a possible showdown with Haye this year is a major attraction for broadcasters.

"It is definitely going to be a big deal for television," said the Ukrainian. "It is going to be an historic event when all the belts will have one name.

"I am the world champion and I will prove it. Haye is good and he will challenge me but this time you will not see defensive boxing as in my last few fights. I will be more aggressive."

Vladimir, 34, said he was prepared to meet the Briton this year and it was Haye's decision whether the fight took place.

"It is up to Haye. I have never been so aggressive in wanting an opponent but this is personal," said Vladimir.

The Ukrainian, who has a record 54 wins and three losses, recorded a last-gasp knockout of American Eddie Chambers in March while Haye retained his title with a ninth-round stoppage of American John Ruiz earlier this month.

Haye, 29, who has a 24-1 record, has said the Klitschko brothers consistently pick "over-the-hill" opponents.

They, in turn, have accused the Englishman of twice scuppering their plans to fight him last year.

Haye also angered the pair when he appeared at a news conference wearing a T-shirt that depicted him holding the bloodied and severed heads of the Klitschkos.

"Haye cannot be trusted. We twice wanted to fight him but he always pulled out," said Vladimir.

"He had promised Chelsea Football Club's stadium (Stamford Bridge) then he said 'Let's do it in June' (in Germany) ... he just cannot be trusted," added Germany-based Klitschko.

"Now it is between me and him. Now I think it is my turn."

In a video message posted on his website (www.klitschko.de) on Monday, Vladimir said: "Don't be a coward, David ... in the name of all boxing fans I officially challenge you to fight me.

"You cannot keep running away from me. I am ready so what are you waiting for?"

Print E-mail Bookmark and Share

Go to Forum >>0 Comments

No comments.

Add your comments...

  • User Name Required
  • Your Comment
  • Racist, abusive and off-topic comments may be removed by the moderator.
Send your storiesGet more from China.org.cnMobileRSSNewsletter