Lewis denies reports of comeback

LONDON, Feb 25 (Reuters) Former world heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis has denied reports that he is planning a comeback at the age of 41 to fight Ukrainian Vitali Klitschko.

''Although I'm flattered that the boxing community is eager to have me back in the ring, I have no plans to return,'' Lewis said in a statement on his Web site (www.lennoxlewis.com).

''I have no idea how these rumours get started but I am a man of my word, I will remain retired.'' Briton Lewis, who retired three years ago, is the third man only after Americans Gene Tunney and Rocky Marciano to retire while still world heavyweight champion.

REUTERS AY VV1713