Former Anthony Joshua Opponent Banned from Boxing for Two Years After Failing Drug Test.
Robert Helenius, who was knocked out by Anthony Joshua in the seventh round of their bout at the O2 Arena last August, has been banned from boxing for two years following a positive test for the banned substance clomiphene after the fight.
The 40-year-old Finnish fighter stepped in as a last-minute replacement for Dillian Whyte, who also failed a doping test ahead of his scheduled match with Joshua. Helenius had fought just a week prior to his bout with Joshua, taking on a different opponent.
A statement from the UK Anti-Doping Agency (UKAD) revealed that Helenius attributed the presence of clomiphene in his sample to his consumption of eggs and chicken, but he was unable to provide sufficient evidence to support this claim.
“When notified of the Anti-Doping Rule Violation, Mr. Helenius asserted that the clomiphene detected in his urine sample could have originated from his consumption of eggs and chicken,” the report stated. “However, when requested by UKAD, Mr. Helenius was unable to provide any evidence demonstrating that the eggs and chicken he consumed before the bout came from hens treated with clomiphene.”
“Consequently, Mr. Helenius could not establish the source of the clomiphene in his Sample and therefore could not reduce the mandatory two-year period of Ineligibility.”
At the age of 40, Helenius’ future in boxing now appears uncertain following a two-year hiatus from the sport. Dubbed the “Nordic Nightmare,” he has secured 32 wins in his career with five losses – the most recent defeats being against Joshua and Deontay Wilder.
Helenius’ positive test comes less than a year after Conor Benn also tested positive for clomiphene, a hormone used to boost testosterone levels in men. This case highlights ongoing challenges within the sport regarding doping and the stringent measures taken to ensure fair competition.
Meanwhile, Tyson Fury has been removed from boxing rankings following his defeat to Oleksandr Usyk, and Anthony Joshua faces criticism for allegedly handpicking opponents and avoiding tougher challenges.
Robert Helenius’ two-year ban marks a significant setback in his boxing career, raising questions about his future in the sport. As boxing continues to grapple with doping issues, the case underscores the importance of strict regulations and vigilance in maintaining the integrity of the sport.
