by David P. Greisman
Wladimir Klitschko’s decision win over Bryant Jennings this past Saturday marked the 18th successful defense of a world title Klitschko won from Chris Byrd nine years ago, in April 2006.
That brings him even closer to the 25 defenses that heavyweight great Joe Louis made during his reign — though Klitschko’s time as lineal champion has only been since his 2009 win over Ruslan Chagaev and has included 11 victories since.
People keep asking Klitschko about aiming for Louis’s record. Klitschko says that the record isn’t something he’s going after right now and is reverential of Louis and others who came before Klitschko’s generation of big men.
“Those guys are icons for me. I am afraid to talk about breaking Joe Louis’ records because I respect this guy so much and am still looking up to him,” Klitschko said after his win over Jennings. “What he’s done in boxing is probably impossible to break. “
“I’m not even counting,” the 39-year-old said. “Seven title defenses — we’re talking about years and so many fights. Who knows what could happen? There’s so much that could happen in the ring. I’m not looking forward to break it. When there’s going to be 24th title defense and then we’re going to look up to 25, let’s talk about it. But for now, I think it doesn’t make sense.”
Nor will Klitschko speak about where he thinks he stands in the pantheon of heavyweight greats.
“I am not going to rank myself. You guys rank me,” he said. “You can give me your judgment, where you see myself in history, how you find my style boring or exciting. That’s your job. I’m enjoying to be a professional athlete. I’m enjoying to be champion. I’m enjoying to fight at Madison Square Garden in the main event. I’m enjoying my stage. I’m pleased with your questions and pleased with your attention.
“I hope I can give you as much excitement back as I can,” he said. “That’s your judgment. Not mine. I will take a step back and just enjoy the ride. That’s what I’ve done in the past years. That’s what I’m going to do in the future as well.”
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