In a thrilling display of skill and power, Anthony Joshua showcased his dominance by defeating Robert Helenius in the seventh round at the renowned O2 Arena this past Saturday. The matchup took an unexpected turn as Helenius stepped in on short notice to challenge the former heavyweight champion, replacing Dillian Whyte who was sidelined due to an adverse anti-doping finding.
Helenius surprised everyone by holding his own against Joshua in the first half of the match. However, Joshua’s determination and precision couldn’t be denied. In a pivotal moment, he landed a colossal right cross to Helenius’ jaw, ending the fight at 1 minute and 27 seconds into the seventh round.
Originally set to reignite his rivalry with Dillian Whyte, Joshua’s plans were abruptly altered due to Whyte’s anti-doping issue. With just a week’s notice, Joshua needed a new opponent, and that’s when Helenius stepped up. Fresh from a three-round victory over Mika Mielonen in Finland, Helenius seized the chance to make a mark in the heavyweight division after his previous loss to Deontay Wilder.
Joshua, driven by his aspiration to reclaim a title, remained patient and calculated. He gradually wore down Helenius with well-timed combinations, ultimately delivering a devastating conclusion.
As the match progressed, Joshua’s control solidified. By the second round, he was dictating the pace, showcasing his precision with a left hook that connected with Helenius. Although the audience demanded more action, Joshua continued his strategic approach.
In response to calls for urgency, Joshua unleashed a powerful right cross that rattled Helenius in the third round. Despite the blow, Helenius displayed resilience, weathering Joshua’s assaults through the fifth round. In a striking moment, Joshua’s right hand struck with such force in the fifth round that the impact echoed throughout the arena.
The sixth round saw a shift in momentum as the pace waned, but Joshua was not content to let the fight drag on. In a sudden burst of speed, he executed a masterful combination. A jab opened up an opportunity, allowing Joshua’s right hand to find its target squarely on Helenius’ jaw.
The impact was undeniable as Helenius dropped heavily, prompting the referee to swiftly end the contest. Joshua left the ring momentarily to celebrate, only to return and have his victory officially recognized.
The outcome was a triumphant one for Joshua, who achieved the result he desired in spectacular fashion. As he sets his sights on future challenges, including a potential showdown with Deontay Wilder, Joshua’s determination and resilience continue to shape his legacy in the heavyweight division.
Undercard Highlights:
Beyond the main event, the undercard provided its own set of captivating moments. Filip Hrgovic maintained his status as the mandatory challenger for the IBF heavyweight title, securing a stoppage victory in the 12th and final round against Dempsey McKean. Hrgovic’s journey to the top of the heavyweight division remains steady as he eyes his shot at the title.
Derek Chisora, a seasoned heavyweight contender, navigated a 10-round bout against American Gerald Washington. Chisora’s encounter and diligence earned him a consistent choice triumph, demonstrating his persevering nearness within the don.
As the tidy settles on this momentous night of boxing, the world energetically is standing by the following chapter in Anthony Joshua’s travel, with a potential clash against Deontay More out of control approaching on the skyline.