DPA/Hamburg
Wladimir Klitschko said yesterday he wanted a rematch with Tyson Fury after the loss of his world heavyweight boxing titles to the British boxer.
Klitschko said in a statement on his website he had decided to take up the contractual option for a rematch. “I was really frustrated directly after the fight but after some short nights I now know that I want to show that I am much better than my performance on Saturday,” he said.
“I couldn’t show my full potential at any time. This is what I want to change in the rematch - and I will. Failure is not an option.”
Bernd Bonte, the head of the Klitschko management group, said: “There will be a huge worldwide interest in this fight which already can be billed as the fight of the year 2016.
“We received so many questions of fans and journalists after last Saturday. The new champion and his challenger will answer all of them inside the ring.”
Klitschko’s management will contact Fury’s promoter Hennessy Sports to discuss the next steps including a date and venue, a statement said.
Klitchko had earier posted a message in Instagram thanking his supporters and saying: “The Klitshcko story will continue. Failure is not an option.”
Fury, who beat Klitschko in a unanimous points decision in Dusseldorf, had shown his willingness for a rematch with the Hamburg-based Ukrainian.
In his earlier message, 39-year-old Klitschko, who lost his IBF, WBO and WBA titles in his 19th title defence, said: “It’s been four days now and I need some time to understand what happened and to decide my next steps.
“BUT: I have to thank my fans, my team and all my partners. You have always been great and supportive. After an 11-year winning streak, I now begin to realize that you are even greater in defeat.
“I received many messages over these last few days. Your kind words and blessings are helping me get through this rough time.”
