Ukrainian opposition leader Vitali Klitschko has vacated his world heavyweight title and says he doesn’t expect to fight again as he concentrates on Ukrainian politics.

The World Boxing Council on Monday proclaimed Klitschko a “Champion Emeritus”, a move that would allow him to challenge the new champion directly should he wish to resume his career.

But Klitschko says he “could not imagine at all something like that happening as things stand now”.

Klitschko says he will focus on politics in Ukraine and that “I feel people need me there”.

The 42-year-old Klitschko has a 45-2 record with 41 knockouts.

His younger brother Wladimir holds the other significant heavyweight belts.

Massive crowds have demonstrated for weeks in Kiev to protest against President Viktor Yanukovych’s decision to shun closer ties with the European Union.