Anthony Joshua will face Robert Helenius in a 12-round main event at The O2 in London this Saturday August 12, shown exclusively live worldwide on DAZN – with fans now able to view as part of their regular subscription.
“This wasn’t in the script,” said Joshua. “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.”
“I am excited about fighting Anthony Joshua on August 12,” said Helenius. “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!”
Last week it emerged that Whyte had ‘adverse findings’ in his sample by VADA and his fight with Joshua was cancelled.
Matchroom boxing said:
‘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 cancelled, and a full investigation will be conducted.’
Whyte hit back with his own statement:
“I am shocked and devastated to learn of a report by Vada of adverse findings relating to me.
“I only learned of it this morning and am still reacting to it.
“I have also just seen that the fight is being cancelled without having any chance to demonstrate my innocence before the decision was taken.
“I can confirm without a shadow of doubt that I have not taken the reported substance, in this camp or at any point in my life.
“I am completely innocent and ask to be given the time to go through the process of proving this without anybody jumping to conclusions or a trial by media.”
