Wlad’s will to win for Ukraine

At the WBC Gala Dinner at the 62nd Convention, in Hamburg a heartfelt report about Ukraine’s plight from Wladimir Klitschko.

Firstly a message from Roger Waters of Pink Floyd urging a united stance and to tear down walls.

Then, Wladimir said the war has changed them making them better people. Since the war began in February 2022 hundreds have been killed. Among these deaths, sixty boxers have perished.

He also insisted: “We will never give up. The aggressor will fail. When Kiev was almost surrounded I asked myself what is important. Respect, money or medals. No…You are more in care of human kind. Create but do not destroy. People keep on dreaming so do this and fight for your dreams.

Klaus Meinel lead singer of the Scorpions talked of how they have adapted their famous song Wind of change to highlight Ukraine’s plight. And on stage he whistled the introduction and started singing the song, completely unaccompanied.

Guest of Honor His Excellency Turki who is the WBC’s Man Of The Year made a special announcement spoke of his efforts to help boxing during the last fourteen months. He stressed about the importance of checking a boxer’s health before ring time.

He explained that he had bought The Ring Magazine to help boxing get back its name saying the hope is to do something with the magazine and the WBC.

WBC President Mauricio then announced a Grand Prix Boxing Tournament which will be in Saudi Arabia and start in February. One hundred and twenty eight boxers aged no older than twenty six will compete in the super lightweight, middleweight and heavyweight categories for this is a competition to spot young up and coming talent. The heats will be fought with eight rounds and the finals will be ten. There will be five events in Saudi Arabia.