Brothers Vitali and Wladimir Klitschko have inspired many with their tremendous success inside the ring, as the current co-holders of the world heavyweight championship. But being role models extends outside the ring as well. Both brothers give generously to charities and have their own foundation. Vitali is very active politically in his native Ukraine, fighting corruption.

The Boxing Writers Association of America will be officially recognizing their good deeds at its annual awards dinner when it bestows upon the Klitschkos the James A. Farley award, which is given for “Honesty and Integrity in Boxing.” The dinner will be held at the Copacabana in New York City, on Wednesday June 6, 2012.

Although the Klitschkos want the respect generated by their achievements inside the ring, it is just as important to them how they are judged as sportsmen and individuals of high moral character. That is why they were pleased when the BWAA informed them they had won this award.

“It was totally unexpected” Wladimir said. “It means a great deal to us to receive such a great honor from the BWAA.”

Because he will be in training camp preparing for a title defense against Tony Thompson on July 7, Wladimir’s attendance at the event is in doubt, but Vitali has confirmed he will be in New York for the
affair.

For ticket information and a complete list of the honorees, go to the Boxing Writers Association of America’s website, bwaa.org