Anthony Joshua’s opponent Robert Helenius has returned an ‘opposed analytical discovering’ in a drug take a look at.
Helenius was a late discover alternative opponent for Joshua after it was revealed that Dillian Whyte had returned ‘opposed analytical findings’ on the weekend earlier than their scheduled battle at The O2 on August 12.
However Joshua’s promotional group Matchroom Boxing has since confirmed that Helenius additionally failed a ‘random’ drug take a look at performed the day earlier than the battle.
In a press release, Matchroom Boxing confirmed they have been first notified in regards to the opposed discovering this Friday, 13 days after the battle.
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Helenius had stepped in at late discover to battle Joshua
It learn: “At the moment, the Voluntary Anti-Doping Affiliation (VADA) has knowledgeable Matchroom and the British Boxing Board of Management that Robert Helenius has returned an opposed analytical discovering as a part of a random anti-doping protocol.
“Helenius was voluntarily examined on Friday August 11 earlier than the heavyweight fighter’s defeat by Anthony Joshua in London on Saturday August 12. The end result was made identified to Matchroom at the moment (Friday).
“Matchroom defers to the related regulatory authorities on subsequent steps. We vehemently proceed to help voluntary anti-doping testing. We’re dedicated to selling a clear and honest sport for all athletes.”
Joshua delivered a dramatic one-punch knockout win over Helenius within the seventh spherical to maintain himself heading in the right direction for a battle towards Deontay Wilder.