Vitali Klitschko: Punching Above His Weight

Vitali Klitschko, Ukraine, Boxer & Politician

Vitali Klitschko, Ukraine, Boxer & Politician

One of the greatest heavyweight boxing champions of all time, Klitschko retained his WBC title in September this year. Known as Dr. Ironfist, he is the son of a Soviet general, speaks four languages, is passionate about chess and earned a PhD in sports science. And he wants to change the political landscape of the Ukraine.

A strongly pro-European figure, Klitschko made his first political statement in the ring eight years ago by wearing an orange flag on his shorts to protest an election fraud. He went on to win a seat on Kiev council and in 2011 formed the UDAR party, whose initials form the Russian word “punch”.

Klitschko and UDAR are campaigning for improved services and against town hall corruption and the powers of business cliques. UDAR, now the country’s fourth largest political bloc is also pushing for improved human rights, privatisation and European standards of governance.

“Sport has made me realise that you have to be stubborn and persevere to get results. It might take longer in politics, but once you have the right goal and desire, you will reach it.”

The post-Soviet era experiences of Poland have been an inspiration to Klitschko. He believes that the comparison between that county’s recent achievements and the limited progress to be seen in Ukraine is lamentable. Both counties faced similar problems after communism but Poland overcame them in a way that led to stability and prosperity as a member of the European Union.

Working alongside his brother, Vitali Klitschko has established a charitable trust ‘to breathe new life into Ukrainian society.’ At CFI.co we like the cut of his jib and wish him well. What is Klitschko’s long term goal? Could he be sailing in the direction of the presidency?


Tags assigned to this article:
polandukraine

You may have an interest in also reading…

Catherine Samba-Panza: Determined to Bring Peace and Democracy

She promises elections and works vigorously towards that ultimate goal, but will not stand as a candidate. President Catherine Samba-Panza

Martin Höfeler: Fashions Come and Go, but Style — and Environment — are Forever

It’s all about sustainability in 2022, and there’s likely to be no lessening of focus in coming decades. Sustainability matters,

Elon Musk: A Man on a Mission

Philanthropist, self-made multibillionaire, technological genius and indeed a dreamer: The list goes on. These are some of the marks and