Lennox Lewis posts classy tribute to heavyweight legend Vitali Klitschko on anniversary of their fight as he salutes former opponent for standing up for Ukraine amid war with Russia

Lennox Lewis has paid tribute to his former rival Vitali Klitschko 19 years on from their heavyweight world title fight.

In June 2003, Lewis beat Klitschko in the final fight of his career, stopping him on cuts in round six.

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The ending to the fight was controversial as the Ukrainian was ahead on the scorecards.

Lewis later decided not to pursue a rematch and retired, which did not help relations at the time.

Almost two decades later, though, the pair have more than settled their differences.

Now, Klitschko has a far bigger fight on his hands.

He is the current Mayor of Kyiv and representing Ukraine amid their current war with Russia.

As a result, Lewis' message on their fight anniversary was very different this year.

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Lewis posted: "Normally on June 21, I would do a fight anniversary post of my fight with Vitali Klitschko, but today I simply want to salute him.

"He is in the biggest fight of his life and the sacrifices he has made to serve his fellow Ukrainian citizens is not just commendable, it’s admirable.

"It takes a lot of courage to step into a boxing ring, and as fighters, we know that every fight could be our last, but the courage stand up for your country and fellow citizens like he has takes a different level of courage and love.

"So on this June 21, I salute you my friend Vitali.

"May God keep you safe and bless you with peace, love and happiness. Bless."

Klitschko responded with a comment which simply read: "Thank you."