Rivals of the Klitschko brothers unite to pay respect Ukraine's boxing champions, as they risk their lives fighting Russia

FRANCHISE rivalries are now over as boxers pay respects to the courageous Klitschko brothers.

Vitali, 50 years old, and Wladimir (45), are fighting for Ukraine against Vladimir Putin's Russia in the 'biggest battle of their lives.


Rivals of the Klitschko brothers unite to pay respect Ukraine's boxing champions, as they risk their lives fighting Russia
Wladimir said that he is in the "biggest battle" of his life
Rivals of the Klitschko brothers unite to pay respect Ukraine's boxing champions, as they risk their lives fighting Russia
Brother Vitali, the mayor of Kyiv, stands with his fellow Ukrainians

Vitali, a WBC heavyweight champion who was undefeated, is now the mayor of Kyiv.

Brother Wladimir (a former heavyweight champion) has been encouraging world leaders to "act now" as thousands of fearful Ukrainians flee their homes.

The brave soldiers have been embraced by their enemies.

Current champ Tyson Fury, who will face Dillian Whyte next month at Wembley, is victorious over Wladimir.

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The actions of the front-line fighters were praised by the 'Gypsy King.

He stated that he thought it was amazing that they were defending their country. If England or America got involved, I would be there first.

"If you are from a country you must defend it." Love your wife, and fight for your country."

Eddie Chambers was KO by Wladimir 2010 but is still thinking of his brothers during this difficult time.

Chambers stated: "I pray to Wladimir Klitschko and Vitali Klitschko, and all the innocent people of Ukraine!"

Ross Puritty, 55, was able to beat Wladimir in his career, but lost to Vitali via technical knockout.

He said, "What the Klitschkos do is extraordinarily patriotic and extraordinarily selfless."

"Their love and devotion to their country is so great.

"Most boxers and anyone as successful and wealthy as they are would not risk their life."

Kevin Johnson, who was defeated by Vitali in 2009 joined the collective admiration.

He is currently in Germany due to a visa issue and has even stated that he would join the couple if he could.

According to the 42-year old, "The Klitschkos do a wonderful job. They have my full support. I am sorry that they can't get help on the ground because of my German situation. They would be my life."


Rivals of the Klitschko brothers unite to pay respect Ukraine's boxing champions, as they risk their lives fighting Russia
Fury praised the brothers' bravery in defending their country