WLADIMIR KLITSCHKO Q&A | OPEN WORKOUT

by Nat Gottlieb | Photos by Will Hart

Your stated goal is to unify the titles. From where things stand today, are you optimistic you will get that chance?

Klitschko: I don't want to talk about unifications before my fight on Saturday night.

At a German press conference for this fight, both you and your trainer Emanuel Steward predicted an early knockout. Why do you feel that way?

Klitschko: I never in my whole career predicted an early knockout. But I would love to win convincingly in every fight.

Ray Austin at 6'-6, is the first fighter you have faced in many years who is as big as you. Will that present any problems?

Klitschko: I have fought many fights as an amateur and as a professional against tall opponents (e.g. Jameel McCline).I'm well prepared for this fight.

You were hoping for a fight with one of the title holders. How do you avoid looking past Austin to a reunification fight?

Klitschko: Austin is my mandatory challenger. I know that he is a dangerous opponent. I won't underestimate him.

Have you done anything different in training camp in your preparation for this fight?

Klitschko: The camp went very well. I have been in my camp for the last 6 weeks on Majorca/Spain.

Why do you like training in Spain?

Klitschko: The most important: the weather is great. The hotel and the gym are excellent.

Tell us how your relationship with Steward has changed since he first became your trainer in 2003.

Klitschko: Manny and myself are very close. Every training camp is very special. I have the feeling that through Manny's input I improve myself from camp to camp.

You will be 31 this month, just entering the prime age for a heavyweight. Do you sense you are at the top of your game, or is there more room for improvement.

Klitschko: There should always be room for improvement. If you ever think you know everything that's the first step towards defeat.

Do you have a time table for what you want to accomplish before you retire?

Klitschko: I would love to unify the titles - but more important is to become the "People's Champion".

When you do retire, how would you like to be remembered by boxing fans?

Klitschko: At the moment I don't think about retirement.

You are a highly-educated boxer. If you had chosen to pursue a career other than in boxing, what would it have been?

Klitschko: I'm still young and I let you know after my last fight what career I will pursue after boxing.