Wladimir Klitschko speaks on his reasons in coming to the decision to retire from boxing rather than take on Joshua in a rematch.

It’s been a long, successful run for Wladimir Klitschko in boxing.

A career that spanned as long as any in the modern heavyweight era that saw him box many of the best fighters of his time that were available to him.

A heavyweight who suffered stoppage defeats early on in his career who was then able to reinvent himself and change his style completely – to what proved to be one of the most effective in boxing history.

His safety-first, long style behind the jab proved a tough nut to crack for well over a decade in the latter part of his career.

But perhaps he’ll be best remembered not for his long period of dominance, but more so his final fight in the ring which although ended in defeat, proved to be one of the best fights he was ever in.

He will go out on top with the support of boxing behind him and the respect he deserves after a titanic battle with Englishman Anthony Joshua back in April of this year.

Following the news this morning that he is now officially retired from the sport, here is the official statement on his website that outlines the reasons in behind making the decision: