Anthony Joshua to face Helenius as Whyte’s replacement

Anthony Joshua will face Finnish boxer Robert Helenius in London on Saturday after being drafted in as a late substitute for Dillian Whyte.

The proposed all-British heavyweight fight was called off last weekend after “adverse analytical findings” in a drug test taken by Whyte, who has promised to clear his name.

Helenius, 39, fought in his own country on Saturday but has agreed to fight the former two-time world heavyweight champion.

“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 checkpoint—Saturday night. May the best man win.”

Helenius, who has 32 wins and four losses in 36 professional fights, was knocked out in the first round in October by Deontay Wilder.

“I am a true Viking who is willing to face any challenge at a moment’s notice,” said Helenius.

“This is not an opportunity I was going to let slip away. I plan to make the most of it!”

AFP