Anthony Joshua vs Robert Helenius
We had a very informative blog post created talking about the ins and outs of Anthony Joshua vs Dillian Whyte II. Unfortunately, leopards don't change their spots and Dillian Whyte failed a drugs test for the THIRD time, which hopefully ends his career for the safety of others. Instead, on August 12th, the Nordic Nightmare Robert Helenius bravely steps in on 5 days notice to face AJ. It's not the ideal fight for the fans, but all respect to Helenius and AJ for giving us a show.
Find Your Local Showing Anthony Joshua v Robert Helenius
Who is Robert Helenius?
This section is usually the tale of the tape, however we all know about AJ. Robert Helenius (32-4), however, is not quite as known as his opponent. The 39 year old Finnish heavyweight only fought on Saturday the 5th, in his comeback fight against Mika Mielonen. Helenius fought Deontay Wilder in October 2022, where he got knocked out in the 1st round.
Two of the other losses consist of a knockout loss against Gerald Washington, whilst in 2017 he lost against Dillian Whyte. However, hard to judge a man who loses to a drugs cheat. He has however beaten three world champions in the shape of Lamon Brewster, Samuel Peter, and Siarhei Liakhovich. And way back in 2011, he defeated Derek Chisora.
How will it go down?
On paper, it should be an easy night at the office for Anthony Joshua. Helenius' record isn't exactly fantastic, but he is fresh off of the back of a strong performance. Yes against a man who doesn't have a Wikipedia page, but after a strong camp and performance, he'll be in fantastic shape and will be more than ready for this chance. Helenius would've known he was in contention to fight AJ, as the fight was called off before Helenius competed, so there is no worries about post fight indulgence.
Find Your Local Showing Anthony Joshua v Robert Helenius
However, Anthony Joshua will be looking at Helenius as an easier opponent than Whyte. Helenius is 6'6 but doesn't have the greatest finishing record. It's a chance for AJ to really put his marker down after a relatively lacklustre fight v Franklin.
We Love Sport prediction
Helenius isn't a complete walkover, but Anthony Joshua should be looking to take the Finnish man out early. He'll be aware that the fans are disappointed with the opponent and will want to put on a show and to make it clear he is still in the hunt for the top of the tree.
Prediction: Anthony Joshua by KO/TKO between rounds 4-6.
Find Your Local Showing Anthony Joshua v Robert Helenius
We Love Sport x Boxing
Here at We Love Sport, we absolutely love boxing. For every big fight card we do our upmost to make sure We Love Sport pubs and bars are the best place to watch the fight other than in the arena or stadium itself.