Klitschko: "I want my title back"

Klitschko: 'Top shape'

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37-year-old fighter Vitali Klitschko says he has no doubts he is ready to unseat WBC world heavyweight champion Samuel Peter this weekend.

The Ukrainian returns to the ring after retiring four year ago to face title holder Peter at Berlin's O2 World Arena on Saturday night.

Speaking at the weigh in on Friday Klitschko declared he was in 'top shape' after measuring a svelte 112 kilograms (246 pounds).

Nigerian -born Peter, who at a shade over 6ft, is a full half foot shorter that Klitschko, weighed in at 115 kilograms (253 pounds).

Klitschko (35-2, 34 KOs) was crowned WBC champion in 2004 but has not fought since his successful title defence against Danny Williams in Las Vegas later that year.

In 2005 he announced his retirement after withdrawing from a WBC title fight with a torn right knee ligament, whereupon the WBC made him 'champion emeritus'.

Early knockout

Peter (30-1, 23 KOs) grabbed the WBC interim title last September by beating Jameel McCline on points.

Both fighters are hard punchers but, with Peter not known for his stamina and Klitschko injury-prone, each could go looking for an early knockout.

The big Ukranian pointed out however, that he had relinquished his belt voluntarily, not through defeat, and now he wants what he sees as his, returned.

"The injuries are in the past," he added. "I'm not worried about whether you'll see the old or new Vitali Klitschko.

"I didn't lose my title in a fight. I gave it up three years ago. But now I want my title back.

"This is going to be a real world heavyweight title fight between two world champions."

Robots

Klitschko admits that his return to the ring has been inspired by the desire to hold a title simultaneously with his brother Wladimir, who holds the IBF, IBO and WBO heavyweight belts.

He said: "We have always had a dream to be world champions together and have all the titles held by the Klitschko."

Peter, whose only career defeat came against Wladimir Klitschko, hopes to follow a victory over Vitali on Saturday with a rematch against his younger brother

"They both fight like robots," said Peter. "I am not a robot. I'm a skilled fighter and puncher, and I'll prove myself again."

Peter's trainer, Stacy McKinley, says being a heavyweight champion has elevated Peter's craft.

"Now he's three, four classes better," McKinley said. "As world champion, you automatically move to another level."