Interview with Wladimir Klitschko
- HBO
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.
- HBO
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.
- HBO
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.
- HBO
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.
- HBO
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
- HBO
Why do you like training in Spain?
- Klitschko
The most important: the weather is great. The hotel and the gym are excellent.
- HBO
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.
- HBO
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.
- HBO
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".
- HBO
When you do retire, how would you like to be remembered by boxing fans?
- Klitschko
At the moment I don't think about retirement.
- HBO
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.
2007-03-10T00:00:00Z
Wladimir Klitschko vs Ray Austin
HBO WCB - Mar. 10, 2007
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