Helenius Tests Positive After The Joshua Fight
Robert Helenius has reportedly tested positive for a banned substance after failing a VADA test for an ‘adverse analytical finding’ in the aftermath of his fight with Anthony Joshua.
Helenius had stepped in to face Joshua after Dillian Whyte had returned an adverse finding following his VADA test.
The use of any alleged performance-enhancing drugs, though, did not do him any favors. The Finnish boxer suffered a seventh-round TKO loss even if he did take the fight on a week’s notice.
It is alleged that the test was taken one day before the fight. Despite that being the case, the result will not be changed. After all, it had no bearing on the outcome as the 39-year-old Helenius lost.
With that being said, this is what Matchroom had to say.
Matchroom On Helenius
“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, 11 August before the heavyweight fighter’s defeat by Anthony Joshua in London on Saturday, 12 August. The result was made known to Matchroom today.
“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.”
Implications Of Helenius’ Failed Test
The news raises serious question marks over the nature of drug testing in the sport. The fact that the test had been taken the day before the fight had naturally raised question marks over whether even a positive test could ever be reported before a fight.
Not only that but following the recent failed test from Conor Benn, Whyte and Alycia Baumgardner, something has to change in the sport. And there is no getting away from that.
Joshua has been vocal about the issue too, stating that the issue has been plaguing the sport.
“The thing is, people do wonder ‘how long has this been going on?. It makes me wonder ‘how long has this situation been going on?’. In a way, I’m not shocked anymore in boxing.
“It’s not only the belt you’re competing for, it’s leaving this game with your faculties. Boxing is a dangerous, dangerous game. Even on the side of it where anti-doping is involved, people do take it for granted,” AJ
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