Wladimir Klitschko has confirmed he is still coming to terms with the loss of trainer Emanuel Steward, who died last month aged 68.
Klitschko? defends his IBF, WBO, IBO and WBA super world heavyweight titles for the first time without the legendary trainer in his corner when he faces Poland’s Mariusz Wach in Hamburg? on Saturday night.
“It was very sad and it is still sad. The relationship between Emanuel and me was very special.”
Steward began looking after the Ukrainian fighter from 2004 and helped him to secure several world titles during their eight-year association.
“It was very sad and it is still sad. The relationship between Emanuel and me was very special,” said Klitschko.
“Not just a regular relationship between a coach and a boxer, I assure you of that, because he respected my experience inside and out of the ring.
“I respected his experience outside of the ring as a coach.
“I can tell you that the real spirit of Emanuel Steward is with us. I am very happy there is a fight so we can stay focused and continue to do what he was excited about.”