Even though Wladimir Klitschko lost his 69th and final fight, the Ukrainian walks away from boxing with his head held high.The 41-year-old was beaten by Anthony Joshua at Wembley back in April but impressed everyone with the dignity, class and humility he showed in the aftermath of the fight.British boxing fans, in particular, seemed to find a new level of respect for the boxing legend following his 11th-round defeat against Joshua.Sure, they’re a little disappointed by his decision to retire because it’s denied them the chance to see a rematch between the heavyweights in Las Vegas later this year.But everyone respects why Klitschko has decided to hang up his gloves now, rather than running the risk of suffering another defeat against the young and hungry Joshua."Twenty-seven years ago I started my career in sport and it was the best choice of a profession I could have ever made,” Klitschko said in a video announcing his retirement."Because of this choice I've travelled the world, learned new languages, created businesses, built intellectual properties, helped people in need, became a scientist, entrepreneur, motivator, hotelier, trainer, investor and much else."I was and am still capable of doing all this because of the global appeal of sport and boxing, because of my talent and, most importantly, because of you, my loyal fans."At some point in our lives we need to or just want to switch our careers and get ready for the next chapter and fresh challenges. Obviously, I am not an exception."Now, it's my turn. I'm obviously doing this with the greatest respect to the new challenges but also with tremendous excitement, passion and dedication, expecting and hoping that my next career, which I've already been planning and working on for some years will be at least as successful as my previous one - if not even more successful."

Klitschko's original tweet to Joshua

Klitschko, perhaps sensing that Joshua would be feeling disappointed after being denied a big-money rematch, sent a classy tweet directly to the Brit on Friday morning.

“My HEART is at PEACE as I pass the torch to @anthonyfjoshua - the next generation,” he wrote. “Good luck little bro, I'm proud of you!”

Joshua responds to Klitschko's tweet

Several hours later and Joshua responded with his own tweet.

Check it out…

“Respect champ we lit the scene up in April! “ Joshua replied. “Your welcome to give me any advice on how to keep this going for the next 10years 🙈👊🏾 #AJBXNG”

Isn’t it great to see such incredible mutual - and genuine - respect between two fighters?

Mayweather and McGregor, take note!