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Klitschko hoping to prove himself a worthy champion

Wladimir Klitschko skips during a training session in Heidelberg, Germany, on Wednesday. PHOTO: AFP

Wladimir Klitschko is expected to do more than just beat Ray Austin in his IBF title defense on Saturday.

The power-punching Ukrainian is supposed to prove he can be the new star of the heavyweight division.

Some already see the 30-year-old Klitschko as the best fighter in a lackluster division badly in need of a marquee name. He beat Samuel Peter by decision, then crushed Chris Byrd and Calvin Brock, three top heavyweights.

Hardly anyone seems to give Austin a chance in the fight in Mannheim, Germany. The American hasn't been beaten in nearly six years, but there are no big wins on his 24-3 record with four draws.

"Ray Austin is running into the growth and progression of Wlad," said Emanuel Steward, the Ukrainian's trainer. "Those watching the fight are going to be lucky enough to see the emergence of one of the greatest heavyweights ever, Wladimir Klitschko."

This might be pre-fight hype, but Steward does know a thing or two about top heavyweights, having trained Lennox Lewis, the last undisputed champion. He has been tireless in proclaiming the talent of his 2m charge in recent years.

Modest

Klitschko, however, is a lot more modest about where he ranks in boxing and what he has to prove to the public.

"I think there is still a lot of work to do to be a real champion, not just a titleholder," Klitschko said. "I'm on the way, but I haven't arrived."

Klitschko (47-3, 42 knockouts) is being touted as boxing's next big thing for the second time. Many boxing fans remember what happened the first time -- and still question his chin and stamina.

Setbacks

He was flattened in two rounds by Corrie Sanders in 2003 and stopped a year later in five by Lamon Brewster.

But he resurrected his career in September 2005, climbing off the canvas three times to win a unanimous decision against Peter -- the Nigerian still considered a potential champion himself.

"Many thought I could never come back from the devastation of the Brewster defeat," Klitschko said. "You see, I never lost my confidence. The ups and downs of the past have made me love this sport more."

There is no doubt who is the star on Saturday. The fight poster for HBO -- the US pay-TV network showing the bout -- is dominated by a picture of Klitschko. Austin isn't in the photo and his name is in small type at the bottom.
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