Report: Wladimir Klitschko And DAZN Discussed Three-Fight Deal
Although Wladimir Klitschko has denied rumors of him possibly coming out of retirement to face Dillian Whyte, a new report indicates that Klitschko might still be thinking about a comeback in general.
Mike Coppinger of Ring Magazine reported that the former unified heavyweight champion had discussions with the DAZN streaming service to fight on the platform. The report stated that Klitschko and DAZN were looking at a three-fight deal that would also have Klitschko become a global ambassador for DAZN.
DAZN would also make a significant contribution to UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), a charity both he and brother Vitali Klitschko are deeply involved with. Should Klitschko sign with DAZN, it would signify the end of a retirement that has lasted close to a year-and-a-half ago.
Klitschko had been rumored to a potential fight against Whyte, a top contender in the heavyweight division and someone in consideration for a potential title shot against WBA, WBO and IBF champion Anthony Joshua. Whyte recently stated that if Klitschko would come out of retirement, then he would be happy to face him. Since that interview with talkSPORT happened, Klitschko texted Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix about the situation, saying any rumors of him facing Whyte are “fake news.”
The 42-year-old Klitschko had been a world heavyweight champion for more than 10 straight years during his career, winning several titles in the process. Klitschko lost to Joshua in April 2017 and was in talks over a rematch against Joshua, but Klitschko ultimately decided to retire.
