By Luke Furman

Vitali Klitschko (45-2, 41 KOs), 42-years-old, will not rule out the possibility of a final ring return. In order to fully focus on his political ambitions in Ukraine, Vitali recently stepped away from the WBC heavyweight crown. The World Boxing Council gave him the status of "Emeritus Champion." The sanctioning body gave him the same honor when he retired in 2005, and then returned to reclaim the WBC title in 2008. The status of "Emeritus" once again gives him the option of heading directly into a title shot if he chooses to return in the future.

"At the moment, I cannot officially confirm that my career is finished. Almost ten years ago, I had a four-year break and then I came back and regained the title. WBC President Jose Sulaiman has given me the opportunity to theoretical to do the same thing again," Vitali said.

Luke Furman covers boxing for bokser.org.