Klitschko brothers

Vitali Klitschko (born 19 July 1971) and Wladimir Klitschko (born 25 March 1976), collectively known as the Klitschko brothers are Ukrainian heavyweight boxers. The older brother Vitali retired from boxing in 2013 and became a politician in his native Ukraine.

Biography

Both brothers made their professional debut on November 6, 1996 in Hamburg. Since then both have been heavyweight world champions in boxing. They have stated they will never fight each other because of a promise they made to their mother.

1999-2003: First Title Belts & Defenses

In June 1999, Vitali Klitschko won the WBO Heavyweight title from Herbie Hide via second round knockout. He successfully defended the title twice before losing it to Chris Byrd. Six months later, younger brother Wladimir dethroned Byrd via lopsided points decision. He registered five successful title defenses, all by TKO until suffering an upset TKO loss to Corrie Sanders in March 2003.

2004-2006: Second Title Reigns & Vitali's Retirement