Robert Helenius returns 'adverse analytical finding' after he was voluntarily tested on the day before his knockout loss to Anthony Joshua; Matchroom Boxing have confirmed they were first notified of the result on Friday August 25
Saturday 26 August 2023 15:18, UK
Anthony Joshua's opponent Robert Helenius has returned an 'adverse analytical finding' in a drug test.
Helenius was a late notice replacement opponent for Joshua after it was revealed that Dillian Whyte had returned 'adverse analytical findings' on the weekend before their scheduled fight at The O2 on August 12.
But Joshua's promotional team Matchroom Boxing has since confirmed that Helenius also failed a 'random' drug test conducted the day before the fight.
In a statement, Matchroom Boxing confirmed they were first notified about the adverse finding this Friday, 13 days after the fight.
It read: "Today, the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) has informed Matchroom and the British Boxing Board of Control that Robert Helenius has returned an adverse analytical finding as part of a random anti-doping protocol.
"Helenius was voluntarily tested on Friday August 11 before the heavyweight fighter's defeat by Anthony Joshua in London on Saturday August 12. The result was made known to Matchroom today (Friday).
"Matchroom defers to the relevant regulatory authorities on next steps. We vehemently continue to support voluntary anti-doping testing. We are committed to promoting a clean and fair sport for all athletes."
Helenius has stated on social media that a 'non-steroid substance' was found in his system and vowed to co-operate with VADA and the British Boxing Board of Control.
His statement read: "I want to say something very clear in my own words right now with absolutely no exception.
"I did not use any performance enhancement now or ever.
"I have been tested my entire career.
"I was just told that I tested positive for the presence of a non-steroid substance in my system and I wanted to send an immediate direct message to Anthony Joshua and boxing fans that I didn't cheat and never would.
"I volunteer to work with VADA and the BBBofC to do whatever it takes to clear my name."
Joshua delivered a dramatic one-punch knockout win over Helenius in the seventh round to keep himself on course for a fight against Deontay Wilder.
