
Wladimir Klitschko, one of the greatest heavyweight boxing champions of all time, has announced his retirement.

Klitschko fought 69 times professionally in a career spanning over two decades. He lost on just five occasions.

Klitschko rose to prominence at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta defeating Paea Wofgram of Tongo in the super heavyweight gold medal bout.

Klitschko won his first heavyweight title in 2000 -- claiming the WBO belt after defeating America's Chris Byrd.

Klitschko (left) and brother Vitali pose with their championship belts in 2012.

Klitschko spars with his long-term coach Emanuel Steward. The pair worked together from 2004 to Steward's death in 2012.

Klitschko in action against Tyson Fury in November 2015. The Briton defeated the Ukrainian on points in their during their WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO title bout in Duesseldorf, Germany.

The end is nigh: Wladimir Klitschko (left) in action during his defeat to Britain's Anthony Joshua at Wembley Stadium in April 2017. Where does Wladimir Klitschko rank among the boxing greats? Have your say on CNN Sport's Facebook page