• Boxing

Klitschko stops Chambers to retain titles

ESPN staff
March 21, 2010
Wladimir Klitschko was much too strong for Eddie Chambers © Getty Images
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Wladimir Klitschko made a triumphant return to action with a 12th-round knockout of Eddie Chambers to retain his IBF, WBO and Ring heavyweight titles.

The champion had not fought since beating Ruslan Chagaev in June 2009, but showed no signs of ring-rust as he controlled the bout from the off. The fight looked to be heading for a points decision when Klitschko sent his rival sprawling with a powerful left hand.

Klithschko held a height and reach advantage and it quickly became apparent a class advantage as well. The Ukrainian dominated the fight behind his jab, making it impossible for Chambers to make any inroads.

Klitschko rarely upped the pace, although he did rock Chambers in the second with a crunching right hand. It was the jab that dominated the bout, until the dying embers when a left hook sent Chambers sprawling over the bottom rope and he was counted out.

It took a couple of minutes before he came round, by which point Klitschko was celebrating his 54th career win.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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