Will 41-year-old fight legend Wladimir Klitschko exercise the ‘immediate rematch’ clause in the Klitschko vs Joshua contract?
The real question is: Why is Wlad being so indecisive in making the rematch official?
It’s not about the money or the location.
Per rumors, Klitschko has been waffling on his decision to return. First, he wants the rematch and then retirement seems like the better choice.
…And then he wants the rematch again.
Keep in mind, immediately after the fight Klitschko was gung-ho on a rematch.
What changed? It’s easy to get caught up in the moment. Despite losing to IBF Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua in April, Wlad’s stock rose. Not only was it one of his best performances in his career, the fight was one of the greatest in heavyweight title history – And he almost scored a knockout.
At the time, a rematch seemed to be a no-brainer.
But now, after having had time to mull over the decision to face Joshua again, Wlad’s had second thoughts.
Why?
Wladimir was obsessed with winning that bout, was extremely prepared mentally and physically, and had a solid game plan. In fact, it was Klitschko’s swagger that was partially responsible for the buzz that fight generated.
How is Wladimir Klitschko going to attain that same level of hunger and focus the second time around? And what can he do differently to change the outcome of a rematch?
To win the rematch, Wlad will not only have to train with the same intensity, focus and determination he had for their April bout, he’ll need an even better game plan… if one exists.
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Joshua vs Klitschko 2 – The Rematch (fight still tentative)
Date: November 11
Location: Las Vegas Venue: T-Mobile Arena
Broadcast (not confirmed): SKY Sports (UK); Showtime (U.S.), HBO (Delayed U.S.)
Division: Heavyweight
Titles: WBA / IBF Champion: Joshua
Favorite: Joshua
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Prior to his April super showdown with Anthony Joshua, many who favored Wlad (like myself) noticed a quiet confidence in the 41-year-old. It’s a certain swagger that was self-assured but not arrogant. But today, we are seeing something different in Wladimir, and that’s not a good sign if you’re a Klitschko fan.
Can a 41-year-old dog learn new tricks? And can Wlad summon same the desire and intensity he had for the first fight?
