Reigning WBC heavyweight champion, Vitali Klitschko, could be in the running to become the President of Ukraine after announcing he intends to take part in the 2015 Ukrainian presidential elections. 'Dr Ironfist' already has a background in politics as he currently stands as MP and leader of the the Ukrainian Democratic Alliance for Reforms party, also known as Udar, which suitably translates to 'punch'. The 6ft 7in champion currently holds a staggering boxing record of 45 wins (including 41 KOs) out of 47 fights, with his 2 losses coming from injuries which meant the fights could not continue.
Klitschko, 42, known for his intense punches and ultra-durable chin, hopes to fight out corruption within his native Ukraine and aims to bring a modern, European standard of life to the country. His first efforts in politics go back to 2005 when Knitschko began campaigning to become Mayor of Kiev. After losing out by one place in 2006, Vitali vowed to carry on and in 2012 guided his Udar party to third place in the national parliamentary elections, paving the way for his future presidential campaign.
One of Vitali's most memorable bouts came against British legend, Lennox Lewis, in 2003 when the two went head-to-head at Staples Centre, Los Angeles for the WBC, IBO, Lineal & The Ring heavyweight titles. After dominating the early stages and stunning Lewis with two powerful right hands in the 2nd, Klitschko took a major blow to the head in the 3rd round which opened up a wound above his left eye. Lennox then began targeting the cut and, although Vitali was ahead on all three judges scorecards, won by Technical Knockout in the 6th round after doctors said Klitschko's injury was too severe to continue, marking only the second ever time that he had failed to win a professional fight.
So we'll await the results of the 2015 elections, but lets face it, only a brave man would ever compete and run against this guy, especially when he's not in the ring and there isn't a referee in sight...