KLITSCHKO VS SANDERS

THE RESULT

Vitali Klitschko vs Corrie Sanders
WBC Heavyweight Championship
Saturday; April 24, 2004

The highly anticipated Heavyweight Title Fight (WBC version) between Vitali Klitschko and Corrie Sanders turned out to be a very exciting night.

Though Klitschko dominated, you had the distinct feeling that Sanders always had a puncher's chance of producing a huge knockout at any moment. He certainly proved he can take a heavyweight punch as he took a solid shellacking, but he had his moments too, temporarily staggering Klitschko briefly in the first and planting a number of shots in the very competitive third round.

As the bout wore on, Klitschko methodically landed his left jab and occasional right, and the ordeal finally took its toll when in the eighth round, Sanders staggered against the ropes with Klitschko throwing a flurry of punches, prompting the referee to halt the contest.

Although there were no knockdowns, it was a heavyweight slugfest with both men appearing exhausted at the bout's conclusion. Both fighters gave it their best effort and should be congratulated in their performance.

At the post-fight press conference, Klitschko again mentioned he hoped that Lennox Lewis would come out of retirement for one last fight. He also mentioned Mike Tyson as a possible future opponent. Sanders went directly to the local hospital for facial remake and to drain the blood from an injured left ear.

All in all, a great night in L.A., where 17,000 plus were in attendance to witness the event.

Will the "real heavyweight champ", please stand up!