Former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua silenced doubts and cleared a significant hurdle as he stepped into the ring against late-notice replacement Robert Helenius in London on Saturday night. The bout, albeit lacking the fireworks that would fuel a clamor for a showdown with Deontay Wilder, showcased Joshua’s resilience and potential to regain his elite status.
Initially slated to face Dillian Whyte, Joshua displayed a lighter frame and improved speed, a contrast from his recent encounter with Oleksandr Usyk. Despite a tentative start, Joshua’s patience and persistence paid off, culminating in a seventh-round knockout that reverberated through the arena 1 minute and 27 seconds into the round.
In a performance that held more patience than explosiveness, Joshua exhibited glimpses of his former prowess. While his dominance over Helenius didn’t unfold as anticipated, Joshua’s measured approach highlighted his adaptability and determination. Single power shots punctuated his strategy, and a pivotal moment arose in the fifth round when a decisive left hook sent Helenius reeling.
The audience’s restlessness became evident in the sixth round, prompting Joshua to respond with a thunderous right hand that found its mark in the next round. The punch sent Helenius crashing to the canvas, marking Joshua’s first stoppage since his victory over Kubrat Pulev in 2020.
With representatives from Saudi Arabia actively engaged in discussions, the potential clash between Joshua and Wilder looms on the horizon. Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn articulated the ambition for a three-fight trajectory: Robert Helenius, Deontay Wilder, and Tyson Fury.
Joshua’s victory over Helenius underscored his determination to reclaim his position among the heavyweight elite, igniting anticipation for a clash with Wilder that could define the next chapter of his storied career.
