WBC heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko appeared to announce his retirement from the ring on Monday, possibly calling time on a dominant 16-year career.

The 41-year-old former WBO champion announced to a news conference that "I don't intend to fight," though it was unclear in what context the remark was meant to be taken.

"To boxing-lovers everywhere I can say that the Ukrainian flag will be raised and the anthem will be played when Klitschko enters the ring," he said. "But if you mean me, then I don't intend to fight," he added, referring to his younger brother Wladimir, holder of the WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight titles.

"I have a brother, who is very similar to me and more talented, more youthful," Vitali Klitschko said.

He had hinted that his September 8 defeat of Manuel Charr could be his last pro fight before focusing on his fledgling career in politics.

Nicknamed Dr. Ironfist, Klitschko has a record of 45 victories with 41 knockouts along with two defeats.