RTL lands extension to long-running Klitschko partnership

German commercial broadcaster RTL has extended its long-running rights deal for the fights of boxing’s reigning heavyweight world champion, Wladimir Klitschko.

RTL has broadcast Klitschko’s fights in Germany since November 2006 and its exclusive new deal with Klitschko Management Group encompasses the Ukrainian’s next five bouts.

German rights for the WBA, IBF, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine title-holder were on the market after RTL’s deal expired following Klitschko’s points win over American Bryant Jennings on April 25.

The new agreement will commence with Klitschko’s bout against British WBA mandatory challenger Tyson Fury at Düsseldorf’s 55,000-seat Esprit Arena on October 24. As host broadcaster, RTL will also be responsible for producing the international television signal for the fight.

Commenting on the new deal, Frank Hoffmann, program manager of RTL, said: “Wladimir Klitschko is an exceptional athlete on an international scale and through his impressive appearances inside and outside the ring he has become one of the most popular athletes in Germany.”