Anthony Joshua decides to press on, chooses Robert Helenius

Posted : 11 August 2023

Anthony Joshua received a notification that Dillian Whyte had tested positive in a voluntary drug test, leading to the abrupt cancellation of their anticipated all-British heavyweight rematch with just a week's notice.

His initial reaction was a mix of frustration and concern: "Not again, dealing with last-minute replacements is never ideal," Joshua admitted. Thoughts raced through his mind: "Should I proceed with the fight or not?"

However, Joshua recognized his responsibilities towards his promoter, fellow boxers on the undercard, and the fans who had already made travel and accommodation plans. He felt compelled to ensure that the event would still take place.

With resolve, the 33-year-old fighter made his decision: "Let's press on, let's make this happen."

This scenario isn't new to Joshua. He's faced similar challenges before, where an opponent's failed drug test required quick adjustments from promoter Eddie Hearn. All the while, the tantalizing prospect of a high-stakes showdown with hard-hitting heavyweight Deontay Wilder remained on the horizon.

Back in 2019, the Olympic champion and unified world titleholder Joshua had aimed to make his mark in the United States by squaring off against local fighter Jarrell Miller at Madison Square Garden. Yet, Miller's positive drug test prompted the entrance of Mexican-American Andy Ruiz Jr as a replacement just a month before the scheduled bout.

On June 1, 2019, Ruiz Jr delivered a stunning upset by stopping Joshua in the seventh round, reshaping Joshua's career trajectory and derailing a potential fight against Wilder for the undisputed heavyweight championship.

Now, Anthony Joshua stands on the precipice of yet another clash with Deontay Wilder, this time set to unfold in the Middle East early next year.

Reflecting on the situation, Matchroom CEO Eddie Hearn remarks, "During the [Ruiz] fight week, our conversations were primarily centered around Deontay Wilder - and here we are again."

For Hearn, the key challenge lay in selecting the right replacement opponent, as he understood the gravity of the decision: "The prospect of making a choice that could alter AJ's career trajectory, especially when it's not even his fault, deeply concerns me," he adds.

Anthony Joshua decides to press on, chooses Robert Helenius

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