Ukrainian Wladimir Klitschko has announced his retirement from professional boxing putting an end to hopes of a rematch of his heavyweight battle with Britain’s Anthony Joshua.

Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn had been hopeful of the 41-year-old putting pen-to-paper on a deal to repeat the pair’s April slugfest, but Klitschko’s decision means world champion Joshua will have to look elsewhere for his next opponent.

Klitschko, who held versions of the world title for over 15 years, was defeated in an 11th round knockout by Joshua in a thrilling fight that is already considered a heavyweight classic.