Vitali Klitschko: “Wladimir did everything to make sure no one questions his victory
While Wladimir was resting following his fight, we got in touch with Vitali Klitschko for a short interview.
Vitali, what do you think of Wladimir’s fight?
The fight went according to our plan. From the start Wladimir had to use his jab to break down Brock’s defense and set up his right hand. However, Calvin was fully prepared for this fight and his experience, both professional and amateur, greatly helped him. And even thought Wladimir dominated during the fight and in each of the rounds, it took until fifth round for Wladimir to be in control. Though, already in the first round Wladimir tested Brock with a strong jab to the face that startled Brock.
Already after the fifth round, Wladimir started connecting with his right hand. And even though they didn’t land that often, the goal was being accomplished. In the seventh round following Wladimir’s strong attack, which consisted of a jab followed by right hand, Calvin Brock ended up on a scaffold of a ring…
Vitali, when Calvin was knocked down, did you think that the fight was over?
Wladimir knocked down Calvin Brock right next to our corner. Brock took a lot of punishment and I clearly saw what condition he was in. He was in a deep state of grogginess. Calvin showed big desire to continue but the referee Wayne Kelly responded professionally. Calvin Brock had no chance to remain on his feet once the fight was to resume.
Vitali, many experts and fans made remarks that this fight wasn’t entertaining and lacked intrigue. What do you think?
Certainly, many experts and fans compare Wladimir’s duel against Calvin to Wladimir’s fight against Chris Byrd. However these fights are not similar. And opponents were quite different from style to speed. Physically and mentally they are unlike each other. Brock was a very defensive fighter, which makes the fight unimpressive. Calvin constantly sits on his back leg, attacking from distance and positions his body in defensive posture.
Of course, everyone expected to see an entertaining fight with Wladimir winning quickly. But if Wladimir KO’d Brock in the first or second round, many experts would then criticize Brock as being an easy opponent. So I ask you to believe my experience, this fight was not simple for my brother, and Brock was really rigid and defensive opponent.
What do you think is the main reason for such criticism?
It seems to me that the main reason for such criticism is that Wladimir wasn’t able to figure out his opponent until the fifth round…
Vitali, what can you tell us about Wladimir’s condition from the third round. It seemed that Wladimir had some difficulty…
Not necessarily so. Wladimir was ready to fight all twelve rounds. Wladimir was ahead on every scorecard of all three judges. He allowed Brock to prepare for his attacks. However majority of those attacks Wladimir easily blocked or deflected into the air. Wladimir practically didn’t let through any of Brock’s punches, and that cut was caused by accidental head butt as they clinched at the end of the sixth round.
How serious is that cut?
It’s rather small but the wound is deep. Nothing too serious so there’s no reason to worry.
Vitali, what’s next? How likely is it that Wladimir will have a unification fight?
The likelihood of Wladimir carrying out such a fight is very high…But while the contract for such fight is not signed, it’s hard to speak with full certainty.
From all of today’s champions which one is most likely to face Wladimir next?
If there will be no force-majeure circumstances than it’s Oleg Maskaev.
Vitali, couple words to boxing fans…
I want to thank everyone who was present at the arena, fans from different cities in America, Ukraine, Russia and Germany. And those who woke up early to watch Wladimir’s fight on TV. I thank all of you for your support.
I also want to thanks our critics, for pointing out Wladimir’s weak spots, thus helping him to eliminate those shortcomings and become a better fighter.
Vitali…last question. Do you miss boxing?
I miss it…