Klitschko: "I was called a dead man walking"

Wladimir Klitschko has made his opponents eat their words on many occasions in the past as the Ukrainian force bids to do the same again on April 29. The 41 year-old battles Anthony Joshua for the unified heavyweight titles at Wembley Stadium, having agreed to travel to the UK for the contest in his quest to regain top spot in the division.

“I first fought here in 2000 on the undercard of Lennox Lewis vs. Michael Grant, Anthony was 10, it’s crazy to think about time and how fast it runs,” said Klitschko. “When I fought Samuel Peter, his promoter called me dead-man walking, but that man kept walking for a very long time. I know a lot of fans will be watching on TV and in the arena. I’ve fought in front of huge crowds but 90,000 is my biggest arena.”

Manager Bernd Boente believes Klitschko’s experience could be key to putting the first dent on the C.V of 2012 Olympic champion Joshua, who has bulldozed his way to a world title since turning pro a year later. Boente also hopes to sort out the United States TV side of the deal following interest from both Showtime and HBO is televising the massive contest this spring.

“On April 29 at Wembley Stadium with 90,000 people, it’s a true promoter’s dream fight,” pointed out Boente.