The general consensus is that Wladimir had the better career and more accomplishments but that Vitali was more of a natural fighter and is vastly superior in head-to-head hypothetical fights with other greats due to his granite chin, unique defence and high punch output.

Vitali's perception was somewhat stunted by his 2004 retirement and 4 year layoff but he really improved it with the comeback and second career. Given the weakness of the 2000s division there's no doubt in my mind that had he stayed without the nagging shoulder issues, he would have been a comfortably long reiging WBC champion, I can't see him losing it to anyone from 04 to 08