IMG Media signs agreement with Klitschko

The global deal, which excludes Germany, Austria, Switzerland and the Ukraine, starts with his next fight. IMG Media will also be marketing the complete archive of both Wladimir's and his brother Vitali's fights dating back to 2004. In addition, IMG Media will also be actively seeking endorsement opportunities for Wladimir and looking to advise on potential sites for future fights together with hospitality packages.

Klitschko is the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO (Super), IBO and The Ring heavyweight champion and the longest reigning IBF, WBO and IBO heavyweight champion in history, with the most title defences for those organisations. Overall, he is the second longest reigning heavyweight champion of all time with the third most successful title defences, namely 15.

Professional team

Wladimir Klitschko said: "IMG is a truly professional team and they have long and successful experience in the business. I look forward to our cooperation and see it as the beginning of a successful partnership." This long-term agreement enables both sides to plan ahead together - one of the keys for a successful partnership, Bernd Bönte, CEO of KMG said. "Through the cooperation with a leading sports marketing agency we will improve our global awareness and marketing opportunities."

"Working with Wladimir provides us with an excellent opportunity to move into boxing at the very highest level," Michel Masquelier, president of IMG Media said. "He has an outstanding record and is an exceptional boxer and a well-respected personality. We are looking forward to a successful relationship with one of the greatest heavyweight boxers in the history of the sport."