Cancelled Match: Joshua To Face Finland’s Helenius As Whyte Replacement
Nigerian-British heavyweight boxer, Anthony Joshua will fight Robert Helenius in London on Saturday after the Finnish boxer was parachuted in as a late replacement for Dillian Whyte.
The fight against Whyte slated for August 12 at the 02 Arena, London, was called off after his random anti-doping test proved positive.
Matchroom released a statement about the issue on its official Twitter account last Saturday.
“Today, the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) informed Matchroom, the Association of Boxing Commissions, and the British Boxing Board of Control that Dillian Whyte had returned adverse analytical findings as part of a random anti-doping protocol.
“In light of this news, the fight will be canceled, and a full investigation will be conducted. Further information on the event will follow.”
Speaking with Sky Sports, Joshua stated that he was ready to fight another opponent which is 39-year-old Helenius.
Joshua said, “This wasn’t in the script, I respect Helenius and may I say, I respect any male or female who steps into the ring. I am laser focused on the win.
“I can make steps forward to bigger and better things but the road map has a check point, Saturday night. May the best man win.”
Commenting on the new arrangement, Helenius, a British fighter, also stated his readiness for the bout.
“I am excited about fighting Anthony Joshua on August 12, 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,” Helenius stated.
