Boxing news: Wladimir Klitschko reveals what it will take to end retirement and face AJ
WLADIMIR KLITSCHKO will only come out of retirement if he is to pocket £76million ($100m).
The former unified heavyweight champion of the world retired in April 2017 after a dramatic stoppage loss to Anthony Joshua.
He had the opportunity to rematch the Englishman but turned down the chance, deciding to call it a day after dominating the division for over a decade.
Since his swansong, the highest weight category in the sport has become exciting and lucrative once again.
Joshua, Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury have formed a monarchy at the top, with boxing fans salivating for historic match-ups between the unbeaten fighters.
It has left an on-looking Klitschko tempted to return, such are the riches on offer at the elite level.
The retired great was recently offered a three-fight, £69m deal from DAZN, according to the Metro.
Such a contract would presumably entail a rematch against Joshua, who also fights on the American streaming service.
But Vitali revealed to German newspaper Abendzeitung that it’ll take more than £69m to lure his 43-year-old brother back.
Maybe I’ll start thinking about [coming back] at $100m (£76m)
“When the news came that a TV channel had offered $40m (£30.5m) to make a comeback, I called him and asked what was going on,” Vitali said.
“He said: ‘This is an offer that does not really interest me.’
“When, a few weeks later, I was talking about an $80m (£61m) offer, I called again and asked: ‘What is the situation now?’
“He said: ‘This is not an offer that changes my mind, maybe I’ll start thinking about it at $100m (£76m).'
“Never say never – and that has not changed in his status as a retired boxer at the moment.
“One thing is certain: no matter what decision he makes, I will support him 100 percent on his way and stand by him, as we have always done.
“For me, this is how it is: Yes, money is very important in life, but Wladimir needs no money.
“He has earned a lot as a boxer, spent the money well, and has a good career afterwards. The money alone will not motivate him.”