Robert Helenius failed a pre-fight medication take a look at previous to his latest heavyweight battle with former world champion Anthony Joshua, it has emerged.
The Finn was a late alternative for the battle after Joshua’s scheduled opponent Dillian Whyte failed a medicine take a look at himself the weekend earlier than their deliberate battle at The O2 on 12 August.
Whyte later stated he was “shocked and devastated” to be taught of the findings and meant to show his innocence.
Matchroom Boxing, Joshua’s promotional staff, has now confirmed that Helenius had “returned an adverse analytical finding” after being voluntarily examined on 11 August.
In a press release, Matchroom Boxing stated they have been first notified concerning the opposed discovering this Friday, 13 days after the battle.
It learn: “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 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 recognized to Matchroom at this time (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.”
Joshua knocked out Helenius within the seventh spherical to maintain himself on the right track for a battle in opposition to Deontay Wilder.
Helenius has not but publicly commented on the findings.
Source: information.sky.com”