Robert Helenius Labels Anthony Joshua Fight a Must-win!
In his next match, heavyweight boxer Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius (32-4, 21 KO’s) will take on Anthony “AJ” Joshua (25-3, 22 KO’s). Initially the former two-time heavyweight champion was supposed to face Dillian Whyte. However, after Whyte was flagged for PED use, he was removed from the card. Helenius would answer the call for a fill-in opponent.
Three years ago, while chucking knuckles in Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, Helenius played spoiler to then hot contender Adam Kownacki. The Nordic Nightmare roughed up and stopped Kownacki in their first encounter and battered him until Kownacki was disqualified for low blows in the rematch. Now however, Helenius is singularly focused on a title. Joshua just happens to be in the way.
“I have been chasing the world championship for I think 15 years and when you get this big of an opportunity, you can’t let it slip! And I will give everything in my power to win this fight!”
EYES ON THE BALL
Going into the ring, Joshua may still have a bad taste in his mouth regarding last minute replacements. The last time he had one, Andy Ruiz, he suffered a costly and detrimental loss. Therefore, he should be very much on guard for this upcoming bout. Also, the seemingly hard times that his coach, Derrick James, and his stable of fighters have fallen on could have an impact as well.
Much has been made about Anthony Joshua training in the states, along with James’ fighters Frank Martin, former unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr and undisputed super welterweight champion Jermell Charlo. Unfortunately, Martin claimed a lackluster victory in his last duel and Spence was thoroughly dominated and stopped in his last match with undisputed 147-pound champion Terence Crawford.
So let’s hope that Joshua is marching into the fight with full confidence and belief in himself. If not, this would be the perfect time for Helenius to hijack the moment to add to his own glory. Thankfully, no matter what happens, 3Kings Boxing will be here to report the news!
