Wladimir Klitschko Interview: “I Was More Pumped Up This Time”

By Scoop Malinowski

WBO/IBF/WBA/Ring Heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko, in Moscow, Russia at this moment for the Klitschko film premiere, discusses his latest performance vs. American lefty Tony “The Tiger” Thompson, his next title defense, and the big grudge match showdown of Haye-Chisora…

BoxingInsider: How do you feel about your performance vs. Tony Thompson? Were you satisfied with this victory?

Wladimir Klitschko: “I didn’t pick up Tony Thompson to fight, but I was forced by the IBF to do so because of his mandatory #1 ranking position. And I’m glad it’s over with him now and I don’t need to face him again, because of his not easy style.”

BoxingInsider: Your second win vs. Thompson appeared easier than the first, is this true? If so, why so?

Wladimir Klitschko: “It was easier this time, Tony Thompson was missing the confidence and I was more pumped up than first time.”

BoxingInsider: Your friend Roger Federer, age 30, is still improving his tennis game as he showed by winning Wimbledon and regaining the #1 ATP ranking. Are you still improving as a boxer – and if so how and what aspects are you working on?

Wladimir Klitschko: “Yes for sure, just feeling better than I ever was, my body is more efficient compared to when I was 26.”

BoxingInsider: What is the next title defense for you? And your comments about David Haye’s knockout win over Dereck Chisora?

Wladimir Klitschko: “My next fight is by the end of this year, no idea yet against whom. David Haye vs. Dereck Chisora – there was no doubt that Haye will win this fight by a knock out, but it was a bum fight since Chisora lost his fourth fight in the row and Haye lost his last fight and Haye feels like he won the world championship. Kinda funny situation.”