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Sweden-born Finn steps up to the challenge after doping setback derails original matchup
Anthony Joshua is set to step into the ring against Finland's Robert Helenius in a last-minute switch after Dillian Whyte's unfortunate withdrawal due to adverse findings in a Voluntary Anti-Doping Association report.
The sudden change of opponent has injected a new level of anticipation into the sold-out O2 card, which was in danger of cancellation due to a series of potential opponents turning down the opportunity to face the British Olympic legend.
With a £47 million (Ksh 8,583,544,900) showdown against Deontay Wilder on the horizon, Joshua's team is focused on ensuring a victorious performance against Helenius to maintain the path towards bigger challenges.
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Helenius, at 39 years old, has accepted the challenge with enthusiasm and confidence following a recent KO victory just four days prior.
The Sweden-born Finn's 2011 controversial points win over Derek Chisora and his 2017 bout against Whyte, which went the distance in a lackluster defeat, have made him familiar to UK fans.
Standing tall at 6 feet 6 inches, Helenius presents a formidable figure in the ring.
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The unexpected turn of events reminds boxing enthusiasts of Team AJ's past mishap in 2019 when planned opponent Jarrell Miller was disqualified due to doping offenses.
The late substitution of Andy Ruiz, who went on to shock the world with an upset victory, serves as a cautionary tale.
With the Wilder showdown on the horizon, Joshua's team is determined not to repeat history and is banking on Helenius' previous 40-second knockout defeat against Wilder in 2022 as a positive indicator of Joshua's potential explosive victory.
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In response to the surprising change in opponents, Anthony Joshua expressed his respect for Helenius and his commitment to stepping into the ring.
"I respect Helenius and may I say, I respect any male or female who steps into the ring," Joshua stated as per Sky Sports, "I am laser-focused on the win. I can make steps forward to bigger and better things, but the road map has a checkpoint, Saturday night. May the best man win."
While Helenius suffered a one-round knockout by Deontay Wilder last year, his previous back-to-back wins over Adam Kownacki showcased his capabilities. With a record of 32-4 (21), Helenius possesses both experience and determination to seize this unexpected opportunity.
"I am excited about fighting Anthony Joshua on August 12," Helenius remarked. "I am a true Viking that is willing to face any challenge at a moment's notice. This is not an opportunity I was going to let slip away. I plan to make the most of it,” he said.
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17:00 - 08.08.2023
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Meanwhile, Dillian Whyte, the original opponent, is protesting his innocence regarding the adverse findings reported by VADA.
In a statement, he asserted, "I am shocked and devastated to learn of a report by VADA of adverse findings relating to me. The fight is being canceled without having any chance to demonstrate my innocence before the decision was taken."
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