Vitali Klitschko back in Hamburg

30.06 - Press Release - On June 21 Dr. Vitali Klitschko won the sympathy and the respect of boxing fans worldwide with a stunning performance against Lennox Lewis in a fight for the WBC heavyweight title at Staples Center in Los Angeles. Klitschko was ahead by 58:56 on all score cards and in the eyes of most observers on his way to a victory when the bout was controversially stopped after round 6 due to cut injuries.

Today, nine days after the most important fight of his career, "Dr. Ironfist" returned to Hamburg, Germany.

"The People's Champion" was visibly moved by the warm welcome of his team at the airport and gave numerous journalists and television crews interviews.

"It's unusual that you receive such a warm welcome when you return after a defeat", Klitschko commented. "However, it was no real defeat to me. I didn't really lose to Lennox Lewis. I would have loved to present my world championship belt now as I returned home. Unfortunately I can't."

The healing of Klitschko's cut injuries that he suffered during his fight against Lewis showed an amazing improvement. The 60 stitches have been removed several days ago and the only visible thing left are very thin white lines.

"Even my doctor was surprised about the fast healing of my wounds", Klitschko said who has been cleared by his doctor to fight again in three months.

The 31-year-old said he was especially happy when the swelling of his lip decreased: "Now my wife finally likes to kiss me again."

"I want to get back into the ring as soon as possible. I want the rematch against Lewis. Now there is a lot of pressure on Lewis. His ego will push him towards a rematch against me", Klitschko believes.

First, however, the 31-year-old wants to rest a bit and concentrate on the next fight of his brother Wladimir who will step back into the ring on August 30 in Munich.

More Features on www.boxing.de

Photo Gallery: Lennox Lewis fighting Vitali Klitschko

Photo Gallery: Vitali Klitschko arrives at the airport in Hamburg

Poll: Lewis vs. Klitschko - Who would win the rematch?

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Wilhelm-Dopatka-Halle, Leverkusen
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for Drews' European light heavyweight title
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