Vitali Klitschko: Are we going to see a Comeback After all?

24.04.06- By Geoff McKay: Recently there have been unconfirmed rumors that Vitali Klitschko is considering a possible comeback. Klitschko, 34, the elder brother of IBF champion Wladimir Klitschko, announced his retirement last year after injuries forced him to postpone, and finally cancel a fight with mandatory challenger Hasim Rahman.

Before Vitali’s retirement, the Klitschko brothers had stated publicly that they sought to hold heavyweight belts simultaneously. After some unexpected losses by Wladimir that goal looked as though it was out of reach, however Wladimir’s recent destruction of Chris Byrd may have provided some motivation for Vitali, who was names WBC champion “emeritus” after he retired. This meant that should he come out of retirement, he would immediately be named number one contender and be put in line for a title shot.

It will be interesting to see what this will do to the WBC heavyweight picture. If Vitali does indeed come out of retirement, there is a possibility Rahman will have three mandatory challengers out there. First is Oleg Maskaev, his current number one contender. Next comes Toney, who the WBC has mandated a mandatory rematch for against the winner of Maskaev Rahman, and finally Vitaly. With this many challengers it might be prudent to revert to old school Ultimate Fighting Championship scheduling, where fighters fought three and four times in an evening.

Eastsideboxing.com is closely following the situation, and will provide updates if any come available.

Comments may be emailed to: geoffmckay@monarch.net