Wladimir Klitschko has no plans to retire and is relishing the challenge of his next fight against Francesco Pianeta on May 4.

Klitschko holds three of the four heavyweight titles and has dominated the division with his brother Vitali, but even at the age of 36 he still retains his hunger to defeat the next batch of challengers.

The 41-year-old Vitali, who holds the remaining WBC belt, is pursuing a career in politics and may quit the ring this year, but Wladimir still feels he has a number of years left in the sport.

"I feel young enough to not think about it [retirement]. And, of course, I'm looking forward to get a challenge, that's my motivation," Klitschko told espn.co.uk.

"This competition never stops and as long as I'm healthy and motivated I will continue to do the job that I have been doing."

Italian Pianeta, a former sparring partner of Klitschko, is taking a big step up in class and is not expected to pose a tough test to the champion.

But Klitschko has dismissed criticism of his unbeaten opponent and is treating the 28-year-old southpaw with respect.

"I'm getting always criticised with my opponents, it doesn't matter are they well known or not so much and it's always very difficult to fight against someone that is not known because you are always getting these critics," said the WBA, WBO and IBF champion.

"I have to assure you that (the) fight against Francesco Pianeta is going to be very, very tough and difficult because he is super motivated."

Pianeta has already won a battle against cancer and is excited about the opportunity of fighting one of the biggest names in boxing.

"Sure it will be the biggest experience (of my life), but not the biggest fight that I have already won, that was against cancer," he said.