While it may be a huge disappointment that we're not going to see a rematch between Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko, we can still rest easy in the knowledge that we still got to see the pair trade bombs for 11 rounds at Wembley in what was probably the greatest heavyweight bout of the modern era.
With the boxing world expecting a rematch to take place in Las Vegas in November, Klitschko instead decided to announce his retirement from the squared circle, bringing the curtain down on a glittering career that spanned two decades.
In an official statement, the 41-year-old Ukrainian said, "I deliberately took a few weeks to make my decision, to make sure I had enough distance from the fight at Wembley Stadium.
Advert
"As an amateur and a professional boxer, I have achieved everything I dreamed of, and now I want to start my second career after sports.
"I would have never imagined that I would have such a long and incredibly successful boxing career. I'm very thankful for this. Thanks to everyone who has always supported me, especially my family, my team and my many fans."
Advert
A day on from his announcement, Klitschko has now sent a message to Joshua, with whom the former World Heavyweight Champion was close, having trained and sparred together before eventually facing each other as opponents in front of 90,000 people at Wembley, in April.
Taking to his official Twitter account to post the message, Klitschko said, "My HEART is at PEACE as I pass the torch to @anthonyfjoshua - the next generation," the Ukrainian wrote. "Good luck little bro, I'm proud of you!"
Advert
To further prove the respect the pair have for one another, Joshua was quick to issue a response to his mentor, paying tribute to Klitschko while letting the former champ know that his advice would be welcome any time.
Joshua is now expected to face Cuban fighter Luis Ortiz, who is currently the number one ranked WBA contender over 200 pounds.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Anthony Joshua, Boxing, Wladimir Klitschko
