In a surprising turn of events, former boxing heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko has retired from boxing. The move was a rather stunning one, as Klitschko was rumored to be booked for a rematch with Anthony Joshua to fight for the heavyweight title.

That rematch will no longer take place now, after Klitschko informed ESPN of his retirement:

“I deliberately took a few weeks to make my decision, to make sure I had enough distance from the fight at Wembley Stadium,” Klitschko said. “As an amateur and a professional boxer, I have achieved everything I dreamed of, and now I want to start my second career after sports. I would have never imagined that I would have such a long and incredibly successful boxing career. I’m very thankful for this. Thanks to everyone who has always supported me especially my family, my team and my many fans.”

My HEART is at PEACE as I pass the torch to @anthonyfjoshua – the next generation. Good luck little bro, I'm proud of you! pic.twitter.com/R64jCOMYTA

— Klitschko (@Klitschko) August 4, 2017

Klitschko will retire with a 64-5 professional record that saw him reign as the heavyweight champion for numerous years.

We here at BJPenn.com would like to wish the former champ all the best in his retirement, and future endeavors.

This article first appeared on BJPenn.com on 8/4/2017.