FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Vitali Klitschko is leaving boxing to concentrate on Ukrainian politics and his role as an opposition leader.

Klitschko vacated his WBC world heavyweight title on Monday and said he doesn't expect to fight again as he pursues a presidential bid in his home country, where citizens have been protesting for weeks in Kiev over President Viktor Yanukovych's decision to shun closer ties with the European Union and push his country toward Russia.

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

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