Tuesday 31 May 2016 11:34, UK
Being a challenger again has left Wladimir Klitschko "feeling younger" as he prepares for his rematch with Tyson Fury on July 9.
Klitschko (64-4-KO53) tasted defeat for the first time in 11 years Dusseldorf back in November 2015 - losing the WBA Super, WBO and IBF titles to Fury
The 40-year-old Ukrainian was quick to exercise the rematch clause and ahead of travelling to Manchester to face Fury (25-0-KO18) again, told Sky Sports' Ed Robinson that losing has brought with it a feeling of liberation.
I'm enjoying being an athlete. I know it's not going to last forever but at the current stage, I do love what I'm doing.
In an exclusive interview, Klitschko said of taking the unfamiliar role of challenger: "I love it. I just feel younger. I feel better. Believe it or not, I'm enjoying the position I'm at right now. I'm relieved. I'm relaxed but alert.
"I want to show to myself and to my fans that I can become a champion again and can solve that challenge positively with a positive end for me.
"I never had a doubt before I made the decision and executed the option on the contract of a rematch. As a matter of fact, I'm very happy about it.
"I'm enjoying the stage and enjoying being an athlete. I know it's not going to last forever but at the current stage, I do love what I'm doing and I do like where I'm at right now as a challenger."
In their first meeting, Klitschko seemed curiously reluctant to throw his famed right hand and on the few occasions he did, Fury was able to nullify it. This time around, though, Klitschko is adamant things will be different.
He added: "It's simple. I was not present. My body was present but I was not present in that ring. I didn't let my hands go. Through the years, the attitude of defending the titles is different from conquering the man that stands in front of you.
"That attitude changed after I lost. I'm happier and I have a chance to make it straight and bounce back. I feel free. I do feel less pressure and just reloaded.
"It will be a boxing match that will be so enjoyable for the fans and for me as well. I will knock Tyson Fury out."
