Vitali Klitschko is a Ukrainian former professional boxer who competed from 1996 to 2012. He held multiple world heavyweight championships, including the WBO title from 1999 to 2000, the Ring magazine title from 2004 to 2005, and the WBC title twice between 2004 and 2013. Klitschko is known for his exceptional knockout power, with an 87% knockout percentage and having never been knocked down in his professional career.
Born on July 19, 1971, in Belovodsk, Kyrgyzstan, Klitschko and his younger brother Wladimir dominated the heavyweight boxing scene during the 2000s, an era known as the "Klitschko Era." Vitali's amateur career was also impressive, as he won a silver medal at the 1995 World Championships and multiple titles at the World Military Games.
Klitschko turned professional 1996 and quickly rose through the ranks, winning his first 24 fights by stoppage. In 1999, he defeated Herbie Hide to capture the WBO heavyweight title. After successful defences against Ed Mahone and Obed Sullivan, Klitschko suffered his first professional defeat against Chris Byrd in 2000 due to a shoulder injury.
Klitschko's most notable fights include his memorable battle against Lennox Lewis in 2003, which ended in a controversial stoppage due to a severe cut over Klitschko's eye, and his dominant comeback victory against Samuel Peter in 2008 to regain the WBC title. He defended the WBC belt nine times before retiring in 2012.
Outside the ring, Klitschko has been actively involved in Ukrainian politics. He advised President Viktor Yushchenko and was elected Mayor of Kyiv in 2014. Klitschko was a prominent figure during the Euromaidan protests and the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, vowing to fight for his country alongside his brother Wladimir.
Vitali Klitschko's legacy extends beyond his achievements in boxing. He is regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time and a national hero in Ukraine. Klitschko's influence has transcended the sport, making him a symbol of strength, resilience, and leadership in his homeland.