Lennox Lewis Addresses Rematch Claims
Lennox Lewis, the former heavyweight boxing champion, has recently responded to ongoing claims that he avoided a rematch with Vitali Klitschko. These allegations have lingered for over twenty years, prompting Lewis to clarify his retirement decision.
Memorable Encounter and Retirement Decision
In their memorable encounter in 2003, Lewis secured a victory over Klitschko, stopping him after six rounds due to a severe cut. This incident has fueled the debate about whether he owed the Ukrainian fighter a second match.
Lewis, who is now 59 years old, stated unequivocally that the bout with Klitschko was always intended to be his final fight, emphasizing that he accepted the challenge under extraordinary conditions.
“Let me clear this up for you,” Lewis remarked, explaining that he prepared for the fight with only ten days’ notice. “No champion has ever taken on a number one contender on such short notice.”
He reiterated that his decision to retire was planned regardless of the fight’s results.
Reflections on Klitschko and Personal Life
Despite criticisms, Lewis expressed no animosity towards Klitschko, praising him for his accomplishments in the sport. He stressed that his choice to step back from boxing was influenced more by his desire to focus on personal life and start a family than any hesitation to face Klitschko again.
“I seriously considered a rematch, but in the end, I decided to go with the original plan,”
he added, emphasizing that he was mindful of the passage of time.
Career Highlights and Legacy
Lewis concluded his illustrious career as both the lineal and WBC champion, with an impressive record of 41 victories, 32 of which were by knockout, and only two losses and one draw. He retired in early 2004, following weeks of speculation about a potential Klitschko rematch, ultimately paving the way for Klitschko to claim the vacant WBC title and begin a successful reign.
Lewis’s recent comments serve as a powerful affirmation that he departed the sport on his own terms, without regrets.
