In a much-anticipated showdown, ‘The Nordic Nightmare’ met a more cautious version of Anthony Joshua than many had anticipated, raising questions about Joshua’s resurgence. The seasoned British heavyweight, at 33, sought to rejuvenate his career against Robert Helenius, a last-minute replacement opponent.
Contrary to expectations, Joshua exhibited a measured approach, occasionally appearing lethargic in the ring. He encountered some disapproval from the audience as he cautiously navigated the match, ultimately delivering a seventh-round knockout against Finland’s Helenius at London’s O2 Arena.
In the aftermath of the fight, Joshua, donning sunglasses to conceal a minor eye swelling, expressed, “Had the opportunity presented itself earlier, I would have seized it. The victory was a methodical deconstruction. There are multiple avenues to achieve a goal, and I employed one successfully.”
This triumph marked Joshua’s first knockout since his victory over Kubrat Pulev in December 2020. Reflecting on the match, promoter Eddie Hearn shared his satisfaction, relief, and optimism for the future. However, the question looms: Did this performance instill fear in potential opponents like Deontay Wilder, or other top-tier heavyweights?
Former world champion Anthony Joshua needed seven rounds to secure a stoppage against last-minute adversary Robert Helenius during their heavyweight clash on Saturday.
During the contest, the 33-year-old Joshua exhibited a deliberate pace, facing jeers from the London crowd. Nonetheless, he concluded the bout with a thunderous knockout, sealing Finland’s Helenius’ fate at the O2 Arena.
In response to inquiries regarding his upcoming bout with Deontay Wilder, Joshua humorously remarked, “My back’s aching, is there a doctor around? I aim to elevate the heavyweight division!”
Helenius was drafted in as a replacement after Dillian Whyte’s doping test complications. Despite the short notice, the 39-year-old Helenius, boasting 32 wins and four losses in his professional record, managed to survive Joshua’s measured offense.
The match witnessed moments of anticipation, with Joshua’s left hook and subsequent right-hand strike causing Helenius to sport a bloodied nose. Joshua’s powerful knockout in the seventh round met with cheers from the audience, ultimately sealed the deal.
Post-fight, Joshua acknowledged the challenge Helenius posed, stating, “Helenius, I encouraged him to return. I believe he can be a formidable force for others.” Joshua also recognized the volatile nature of the sport and his successful fulfillment of the task at hand.
In a hard-fought match at the O2 Arena, Anthony Joshua triumphed over the late addition to the roster, Robert Helenius, with a decisive knockout in the seventh round.
Amidst the much-anticipated event, the 33-year-old Joshua showcased a calculated approach, which led to mixed reactions from the London spectators. The climax of the fight saw Joshua delivering a formidable right-hand punch, rendering Finland’s Helenius unable to continue.
Reflecting on his performance in an interview with DAZN, Joshua shared, “I told Helenius to give it another shot. I genuinely believe he can present challenges to other contenders. A big thanks to him for stepping up and saving the event.”
He continued, “This sport is unpredictable, and it’s crucial to maintain a grounded perspective within the industry. Tonight, I fulfilled my responsibilities.”
Anthony Joshua demonstrated his refined strategy, securing a commanding victory against an unforeseen opponent, and signaling his readiness to embrace future challenges in the heavyweight division.
