By Edward Chaykovsky

WBO/IBO/IBF heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko admits that after his two embarrassing knockout defeats, against Corrie Sanders in March 2003 and Lamon Brewster 13 months later, even his holder brother, WBC champ Vitali Klitschko - told him to quit boxing.

"Even my brother Vitali said, 'Look at your face, where you are right now, I think it's time to say goodbye to the sport'. I thought I wasn't where I belonged. I was always a champ but suddenly I was on the floor. It was very motivational and a great experience," Wladimir told News of The World.

Klitschko realized that he needed a change and he began to watch tapes of great fighters and reinvented his style. He also started listening working a lot hard with trainer Emanuel Steward.

"There were certain things I took from other different fighters and even Mike Tyson. Even though we are different sizes, certain things I took from Mike as well," Wladimir said. "If I could change those things, I wouldn't. I would never be the person I am today inside or outside the ring if I hadn't suffered those two losses."

Since losing to Brewster, Klitschko has won 13 consecutive fights, captured three world titles and established himself as the best heavyweight in boxing.