In November 2022, the WBC ordered a final eliminator Wilder vs Ruiz bout between Deontay Wilder, the sanctioning body's top-ranked heavyweight, and second-ranked Andy Ruiz Jr. The winner of this Wilder vs Ruiz fight was set to become the mandatory challenger for the current champion, Tyson Fury. Initially, there was significant excitement about this match-up, but negotiations did not lead to a confirmed fight. After a quiet period, negotiations between the two parties reignited in the early summer. During these talks, Ruiz Jr.'s team claimed that they received an unsatisfactory offer from Wilder’s team for the Wilder vs Ruiz, which led to another breakdown in negotiations. Today, the WBC released an official statement declaring the initial order for the Wilder vs Ruiz final eliminator bout to be null and void due to the inability to finalize the fight. The statement read:

“The WBC Board of governors has ruled to cancel the order which was issued during the last annual convention calling for a final elimination bout between Deontay Wilder and Andy Ruiz jr to determine the mandatory challenger of the division. The WBC will evaluate the current situation in the division in order to review the viable options and if necessary, issue a new ruling during the WBC annual convention to be held in Uzbekistan in November.”

While Ruiz Jr. is currently without a confirmed opponent, Deontay Wilder is reportedly in advanced negotiations to face Anthony Joshua in early 2024. This potential bout would pit the WBC’s first-ranked heavyweight (Wilder) against the third-ranked heavyweight (Joshua), offering an alternative path to establishing a mandatory challenger for Tyson Fury. In a notable departure from traditional title defenses, Tyson Fury is set to face MMA star Francis Ngannou in a crossover boxing match. This event is slated for October 28 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, rather than Fury defending his title against a ranked boxing contender in 2023. Saudi Arabia is also the anticipated location for the potential Wilder-Joshua fight, should that bout reach a final agreement. The American boxer, Wilder, has not ruled out the possibility of another fight before this proposed match-up with Joshua.

Victor Conte, despite serving time for his involvement in the BALCO scandal, remains defiant, as highlighted in the latest episode of Netflix's sports docuseries "Untold," titled "Hall of Shame." This episode revisits various figures in track, football, and notably baseball who faced controversy due to performance-enhancing drugs. Conte insists that the sports world was already saturated with the use of prohibited substances before BALCO shifted its focus in 2000 from supplements to "the clear," a steroid that was uniquely undetectable by testing methods. He argues that he was equalizing competition rather than giving players and clients an unfair advantage, stating in the documentary that under such circumstances, he believes his actions weren't cheating. The documentary’s soundtrack, which features playful and lighthearted music in its initial segments, seemingly underlines Conte's perspective, portraying him as someone who takes pride in his role within sports and his proximity to success, even if he hasn't personally received any accolades. However, "Hall of Shame" does not shy away from presenting contrasting views. It effectively demonstrates how steroids significantly impacted athletes’ performances, exemplified by sprinter Tim Montgomery's improved time in the 100 meters after using these substances. Montgomery, openly discussing his use of performance enhancers, remarks on his desperate drive for victory. A significant part of the documentary centers on baseball legend Barry Bonds, one of BALCO’s most famous associates. The film acknowledges that Bonds was likely on a trajectory towards the Hall of Fame even before his sudden surge in home run prowess. While Bonds consistently denies using performance-enhancing drugs, the enduring questions surrounding his achievements have so far prevented his induction into the Hall of Fame, despite his extraordinary career. The documentary skillfully communicates the pressures and incentives that athletes face, and how the desire for victory can overshadow reservations about employing artificial, chemical aids. It briefly highlights the commercial and social rewards reaped by athletes, such as Marion Jones, who was the only athlete to face imprisonment in relation to the BALCO case after she pleaded guilty to perjury. The director, Bryan Storkel, juxtaposes Bonds' home run race with the memorable and eventually tarnished competition between Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa, illustrating how this chapter impacted the perception of America's beloved sport. IRS investigator Jeff Novitzky is featured in the documentary to provide additional context. He labels Conte as a “snake-oil salesman” and criticizes the reckless administration of performance-enhancing drugs, likening the athletes to unwitting test subjects due to the unknown long-term effects of these substances. The "Untold" series is known for its exploration of the darker or more unconventional aspects of sports, with episodes in this season also focusing on figures like Jake Paul and Johnny Manziel. While "Hall of Shame" doesn't provide an exhaustive account of the BALCO story, it captures Conte's apparent indifference to the line between infamy and fame, placing him firmly within the focus of the episode.

Alycia Baumgardner was found to have tested positive for Mesterolone in an anti-doping test conducted by Drug-Free Sports just three days prior to her bout with Christina Linardatou. In a separate incident, Eddie Hearn had a heated exchange with Simon Jordan following a debate on TalkSport, which has since become a trending topic under the hashtags #shorts and #boxing. Additionally, Jessica McCaskill appeared as a guest on 'ThaBoxingVoice' show last night. During her appearance, she seemed to imply that Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Boxing might have had a role in the unfavorable test result associated with Baumgardner.

“So let’s do the math, like, really quick. Okay? Alycia signed a multiple-fight contract with Matchroom in, what, beginning January 2022? Multiple fights. She had four fights. She has a mandatory now. Who is Choi? Right?” “When you have a mandatory, you don’t necessarily have to have a promoter. Mine went to a bid. And what happened to my fight? I was supposed to fight, like, June 24 or something like that. I signed my contract. My opponent signed my contract, and they asked me to sign a Matchroom, re-up with them for three more fights.” “I was like, let’s finish this mandatory and figure out what’s going to happen. What happened? Because I did not sign the contract. They took my opponent and gave her to Terri Harper. So at that point, I had no fight.” “So at that point, I had to sign back up with Matchroom for a couple more fights with her. She got a fight choice, and they’re not saying, hey, Alycia signed another multiple-fight contract.” “They’re saying, Alycia pop hot. So maybe she’s not signing the contract. Maybe she likes putting Matchroom in a corner somewhere, and they don’t like that. So all of a sudden, quote, unquote, she pops hot” “The most wild thing I’ve ever seen in my life”, Eddie Hearn told October Red Boxing, “I mean they’ll be hearing from us today. “Essentially Jessica McCaskill said and I don’t mind repeating it because he’s one of the most bizarre things ever, Alycia (Baumgardner) had one fight left on her contract so maybe this was Matchroom trying to disrupt it.” “I mean firstly that is the most offensive thing I think I’ve ever heard in my life and secondly the most defamatory thing I’ve ever heard in my life.” “You think a global business of our size that has aspirations to float in an IPO…what sort of process happens you go to an agency that represents the MBA the NFL the NCAA NASCAR the LPGA and make up a test result?” “I know we live in a world of conspiracy theories but that is the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard in my life and I’ll be speaking to Jessica because it’s bang out of order you know.” “And if that’s your line of defence that’s worrying you know you have to defend yourself here not say ‘well I think Matchroom just made it up’, I mean what? Absolutely baffled.” “Rick Ramos is a wild guy he says some crazy stuff and it’s like a conspiracy they’ve got this conspiracy thing in boxing you know she said that ‘I was in a purse bid situation and they gave my opponent to Terri Harper, no what actually happened was we lost the purse bid and someone else won the first bid and didn’t put the fight on so the fight becomes null and void and in the meantime we offered her the fight against Harper at short notice because there was no fight with McCaskill.” “So again I have to deal with them appropriately because I’m not having people talk about my family business like that and it’s wild, absolutely wild. “It’s one of the most comical things I’ve ever heard in my life. This is a terrible situation for us, for the sport, for Alycia.”

After becoming the undisputed super middleweight world champion in November 2021 by defeating Caleb Plant, Canelo Alvarez has experienced mixed results in his subsequent fights. In May 2022, Alvarez took on Dmitry Bivol in the light heavyweight division but suffered a loss. However, by September 2022, he bounced back with a victory against Gennadiy Golovkin, marking their third fight. Following this win, Alvarez underwent surgery on his left wrist. In May, Alvarez faced John Ryder, delivering a win through a unanimous decision. While he managed to wound Ryder, many were surprised that he couldn't secure a knockout. Now, Alvarez is set to fight Jermell Charlo at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on September 30. This Canelo vs Charlo bout will be available on Showtime pay-per-view, with both fighters competing in the 168-pound category. During a press meet at The Beverly Hilton, Alvarez addressed the murmurs about his recent performance, admitting that he wasn't at his peak in his last two fights. He believes that his injured hand was a factor. Despite this, Alvarez is confident and promises to give his best in the upcoming Canelo vs Charlo fight. Alvarez expressed his gratitude for being part of significant bouts and anticipates a thrilling night for the fans who've eagerly awaited this Canelo vs Charlo match. Earlier this year, Alvarez, who's been a champion in four weight classes, penned a three-fight contract with Premier Boxing Champions.

“We’ll see if it’s true that I’ve lost a step. We’ll see. I understand what the people said and I agree. I didn’t look my best in my last two fights, but I know why and I’m ready for this fight. We’ll see what happens. We’re going to see something different,” Alvarez said during a press conference at The Beverly Hilton. Alvarez said fighting with an ailing hand prohibited him from performing at a peak level. “I’m going to bring my best like always. I’ll bring my skills and my experience into the ring. I’m just going to do my best and that’s it,” said Alvarez. “I’m very happy to be involved in big fights like this. I hope that everybody enjoys this fight because it’s going to be a great night for the fans and for everybody who has wanted to see this fight for a long time.”

Being 33 years old, Alvarez has several possible notable matches lined up with fighters associated with PBC. This includes names like David Benavidez, Errol Spence Jr., David Morrell, Jermall Charlo, and Demetrius Andrade. Alvarez mentioned that although he may appear easy to defeat outside the ring, the experience is different when fighters face him inside it. Regarding the Charlo brothers, Alvarez expressed his respect for both but feels Jermell has faced tougher competitors and is the superior fighter.

“I always say that outside of the ring, I look like I’m an easy opponent. But when fighters step in the ring with me, it’s completely different. It’s not the same watching me from outside the ring as it is actually being inside the ring with me. I’m a different guy,” said Alvarez. “I think both Jermell and Jermall Charlo are great fighters. No disrespect to Jermall. But I think Jermell has had better opposition in his fights. I think he is the better fighter. That’s just what I think.”

Tim Bradley believes that Jermell Charlo, the 154-pound undisputed champion, is taking on a task too big for him by moving up to 168 pounds to challenge Canelo Alvarez for his undisputed championship on September 30th. According to Bradley, this Canelo vs Charlo fight is heavily in favor of Canelo, who has a record of 59 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, with 39 of those wins by knockout. He thinks that Charlo, with a record of 35 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw (19 KOs), will struggle to handle Alvarez's power. This is because Charlo has previously had trouble with fighters in the 154-pound division. Bradley points to Canelo's experience fighting at 175 pounds, noting that he has won against former unified light heavyweight champion Sergey Kovalev and lost to WBA champion Dmitry Bivol. In Bradley’s view, Charlo likely won’t be able to hurt Canelo with his punches. However, Charlo has stated that his strategy isn't to knock out Canelo. Instead, he aims to outbox him and secure a win through a judges' decision. Charlo believes attempting to knock out Canelo would be unwise, given that Canelo has previously withstood powerful hits from fighters like Gennadiy Golovkin, Miguel Cotto, Bivol, and Kovalev. Charlo also argues that Canelo's past performances against these fighters don't matter much now because Canelo has aged and isn’t the same fighter he was in 2018 and 2019, when he secured victories over Golovkin and Kovalev. Charlo suggests that the Canelo who lost to Bivol and had close fights with a 41-year-old Golovkin and John Ryder is different from the earlier version of Canelo. Bradley might have also considered the potential for controversial judging in this upcoming Canelo vs Charlo fight. It should be noted that in Canelo's fight with Bivol, the judges scored the fight 115-113 in favor of Bivol, three times, despite many viewers believing that Bivol won far more decisively. The implication is that Charlo might need to win very convincingly to avoid a similar situation with the judges.

“That’s a mismatch. How will you go up two weight classes?”

said Tim Bradley to Fighthype about the Canelo vs Charlo fight being a mismatch in favor of the Mexican star.

“You’ve [Jermell] been hurt by guys at 154, and you’re going to go up two weight classes? Do you think he’ll be able to take a punch from a bigger guy? “Anybody that says, ‘Oh, he’s 6’0,” y’all tripping. You’re not just talking about height. No, we’re talking about boxing. That’s what we’re talking about. It’s different. “We’re talking about boxing. He’s [Canelo] fought at 175. Understand that. Canelo Alvarez fought at 175 against big huge dudes. It was Kovalev. He’s a freaking monster. “I don’t give a damn. Kovalev can still punch. His timing and quickness make his s**t so hard, and he’s heavy-handed, and Canelo was able to take his punch. Don’t you think Canelo can take Charlo’s punches at 154? Man, this is terrible,” said Bradley.  

Matchroom Boxing faces another controversy with another doping scandal involving one of their boxers, this time a reigning champion. The World Boxing Council (WBC) disclosed to World Boxing News that the undisputed women’s super featherweight champion, Alycia Baumgardner, tested positive in a doping test. According to the WBC, they were notified of a discrepancy arising from Baumgardner's anti-doping test related to her July 15, 2023, match against challenger Christina Linardatou. This particular test was carried out by Drug-Free Sport and was separate from the WBC Clean Boxing Program.

In light of this, the WBC confirmed they would conduct a thorough investigation, as per their rules and guidelines. “The sample collection that resulted in the adverse finding occurred in relation to the July 15, 2023, bout between champion Baumgardner and challenger Christina Linardatou. The adverse finding in question arose from a sample collection and anti-doping test administered by Drug-Free Sport. It was not part of the WBC Clean Boxing Program. “Accordingly, the WBC will initiate a notification, investigation, and results management procedures for WBC World Championship bouts consistent with the WBC Rules & Regulations.”

This is the second doping issue for Matchroom in recent weeks, following heavyweight Dillian Whyte's exclusion from his rematch with Anthony Joshua. Coupled with another incident involving Conor Benn, Matchroom has now faced three such controversies in a year that have necessitated inquiries. Matchroom Boxing responded to the news, stating, “Given the recent developments, the fight has been called off. We will be conducting a comprehensive investigation.” They also mentioned that updates regarding Joshua’s return and other planned fights would be provided soon. Whyte, known as "The Body Snatcher", expressed shock at the doping allegations against him. He emphasized, “I was surprised to hear about the VADA report of a positive result. I can say with certainty that I haven't consumed the substance in question.” Whyte highlighted his consistent participation in VADA testing for all his fights, and his previous experience where he was falsely accused. He asked for time to prove his innocence. Similarly, Baumgardner has rejected the charges against her.

At a boxing match between Errol Spence Jr. and Terence Crawford, an altercation occurred between Jermall Charlo and Caleb Plant. According to reports, Charlo tugged sharply at Plant's beard, despite Plant’s objections. Charlo continued to pester Plant, who is a former IBF super-middleweight champion, while he was sitting with a close friend. It was also claimed that Charlo made derogatory comments towards Plant based on his race. In response, and claiming self-defense, Plant slapped Charlo in public. Recently, Jermell Charlo, Jermall’s twin brother and a unified super-welterweight champion, discussed this incident during an appearance on The Breakfast Club, a popular radio show. In the interview, he suggested the possibility of a boxing match between his brother Jermall and Caleb Plant. Jermell emphasized that, one way or another, his brother needs to respond. The host of The Breakfast Club, Charlamagne tha God, pointedly asked Jermell about the altercation between his brother and Plant. He wondered aloud whether the incident had been a significant distraction for Jermell. In response, Jermell Charlo explained that he avoids such distractions by remaining focused. He emphasized the importance of the company one keeps, especially leading up to a fight. He conveyed his eagerness for his brother to respond to the incident with Plant. Jermell was firm in his opinion that this matter between his brother and Plant needs to be settled. He wasn't specific about how this should happen but expressed a strong desire for his brother to take action. He suggested that resolving their differences in the boxing ring would be ideal, but if that doesn’t happen, he insisted that his brother should still find a way to retaliate.

“You stay locked in that’s how you avoid distractions. How you surround yourself [and] who you surround yourself with kind of make a big difference leading up to a fight,” told Jermell Charlo. Along these lines, Jermell informed that he looked forward to seeing his brother “get it back“.

This altercation added to the tension on a night when Jermell Charlo himself was engaging in playful banter with Terence Crawford at the T-Mobile Arena, where the incident between his brother and Plant took place.

“They gotta get that one back. I don’t know how they’re gonna do it. I’m talking about my brother’s team. Hopefully, you can do it in the ring, but if you don’t do it in the ring, you better go get your lick back. I don’t know how you wanna do it, just get it back”

Oscar De La Hoya, a renowned former boxer, is demanding clarity regarding the prolonged postponement of the WBA's 140-pound title fight. De La Hoya is considering taking legal steps to defend the rights of British boxer Ohara Davies. Davies, who was recently signed by Golden Boy Promotions, is the top contender in the WBA junior welterweight category. Davies is slated to challenge the current titleholder, Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero. However, there's been a holdup because Romero’s team provided some medical papers for review. De La Hoya has publicly asked for a timely response from WBA president Gilberto Mendoza about Romero's alleged injury. He emphasized that Davies is Romero’s official challenger and they won't back down.

“[Two] weeks waiting for WBA president Gilberto Mendoza and the WBA to confirm ‘Rollies’ Romero’s return from his supposed “injury,”” De La Hoya publicly stated in search of a definitive response. “Our fighter Ohara [Davies] is his mandatory and we will not step aside.”

The fight between Romero and Davies was initially announced on May 30. However, the negotiation period ended without any concrete agreement, and there was hardly any communication between the two sides. Davies' team found it challenging to coordinate with Romero's representatives from Mayweather Promotions and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC). Earlier, Romero won the WBA 140-pound title by defeating Venezuela's Ismael Barroso. Romero is now bound to defend his title against the next top contender to retain his belt. Davies secured his spot for the title challenge with a win over fellow English boxer Lewis Ritson. Davies has had a strong performance, with only two losses in his career. One was against Jack Catterall in 2018 and the other against Josh Taylor in 2017. The WBA had planned a purse bid hearing on July 24 for the fight. But Romero requested a medical break, and the WBA has not yet responded. This delay frustrated Davies, who expressed his feelings on social media. He believes Romero might be looking for a higher-profile match instead of fighting him.

“@SignUp4KOs you p-ssy,” Davies previously exclaimed on social media. “Trying to fake an injury, the real reason is because your grandad @LEllerbe [Leonard Ellerbe, Mayweather Promotions] knows for a fact I knock you the f--- out. Stop being a p-ssy & grow a set of b-llocks & fight me.”

Industry insiders suggest that Romero might be eyeing a rematch with Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis or a match against Ryan Garcia. However, both Golden Boy Promotions and Davies oppose this move. De La Hoya has clarified that their primary aim is to win the belt and not just the prize money. If the match goes back to a purse bid hearing, the minimum bid will be $110,000, with Romero receiving a larger share as the defending champion.

“Not about the money, we want the belt.”

Eddie Hearn is foreseeing an easy victory for Anthony Joshua in Joshua vs Wilder bout, drawing a parallel to Joshua's swift defeat of former IBF heavyweight champion Charles Martin in 2016. Hearn's primary aim is to arrange a fight between Joshua and Tyson Fury, indicating that he would still pursue this match even if Joshua were to lose to Wilder. This signifies that Fury represents a significant financial opportunity for both Joshua and Hearn. It's worth noting that Joshua was a different fighter back then – younger and more aggressive compared to his current demeanor. Over the past seven years, Joshua's self-assurance has been eroded, and he seems unlikely to regain it. In the past, Charles Martin exhibited slow punches and signaled his intentions, allowing Joshua to anticipate his moves. However, Wilder is distinct from Martin. He possesses rapid hand speed, formidable power, and a willingness to unleash his punches. The upcoming Joshua vs Wilder fight in Saudi Arabia promises Wilder's aggressive approach against Joshua. Wilder's style contrasts sharply with Martin's cautious strategy in the past. Hearn clarified that the Joshua vs Wilder fight is scheduled for January due to separate negotiations with each fighter, minimizing the risk of disputes and ensuring a smoother process. Wilder's deal with Skills Challenge should facilitate an uncomplicated arrangement. Hearn remains optimistic about the fight's outcome, believing in Joshua's victory, and subsequently, a potential clash with Tyson Fury. While Hearn acknowledges that the timing of the Joshua-Fury bout could shift, he remains hopeful that it will happen regardless. He envisions a scenario reminiscent of Joshua's victory over Charles Martin, involving Joshua's well-timed combinations. Addressing recent concerns about Joshua's performance against Robert Helenius, Hearn explained that Joshua had prepared for Dillian Whyte but had to adapt his strategy for a late replacement opponent. Hearn lauded Joshua's strategic adjustments in the later rounds, emphasizing his improved boxing techniques, including better positioning and varied jab usage. Although Joshua may not exhibit the same aggressive style as before, Hearn believes that a cautious approach is necessary, considering the potential risks. Joshua's prior experience against Andy Ruiz demonstrated the consequences of overlooking an opponent's power. In terms of timing for the Joshua-Fury showdown, Hearn maintains that even if it doesn't happen by the end of the year, he wouldn't regret the efforts made to arrange it. Despite past challenges and potential errors, Hearn remains committed to achieving a brilliant outcome in the boxing world.

Anthony Joshua's recent victory over Robert Helenius appears to have opened the door for a potential match against Deontay Wilder, and Teddy Atlas, a respected analyst and former coach, has given his prediction for the outcome. In the fight against Helenius, Joshua started cautiously in the first six rounds but later found his rhythm and landed a powerful right hand that led to Helenius being knocked out. With Wilder having also defeated Helenius in a quick knockout last October, speculation has grown about a Joshua-Wilder showdown. During a podcast discussion after the London heavyweight event, Atlas shared his thoughts on a Wilder vs Joshua potential clash. He mentioned two possible scenarios: Wilder aggressively pursuing Joshua from the beginning due to his punching power and determination, or Joshua employing a strategy to trap Wilder. Ultimately, Atlas leaned towards Wilder winning due to his perceived stronger chin and ability to land a decisive punch. Atlas pointed out that Wilder's resilience, despite his losses to Tyson Fury, coupled with his punching ability, could secure him the victory. He noted that while Joshua is skilled at countering, his temperament is more suited to reacting than being aggressive. Atlas suggested that Wilder might catch Joshua off guard with his jab and set up a powerful right hand.

“One of two things. Wilder goes after him early. Wilder can’t fight but he can punch and he’s got heart. And so does Joshua. Wilder’s got heart. He’s got off the floor before, as Joshua has, but he’s taken a terrible beating off Fury that last two fights. I don’t know what he has left. “I think [Wilder] has a better chin than Joshua at the end of the day. He lands the punch first, it’ll be all over. Or, he’ll walk into something. Joshua knows how to counter. “His temperament is to counter, not be aggressive. He might catch Wilder coming in, or make him miss and counter him. Or Wilder uses that as long as a phone pole jab and sets up that right hand and catches Joshua.

“It could go either way but I’ll wind up saying Wilder.”

The Wilder vs Joshua fight's realization now depends on negotiations between the fighters' representatives to secure a deal in Saudi Arabia in the upcoming year.

Deontay Wilder's head coach, Malik Scott, suggests that Anthony Joshua's seventh-round knockout win against Robert Helenius sets the perfect stage for a much-anticipated bout with Wilder, slated for January in Saudi Arabia. Although an official confirmation for the Joshua-Wilder fight is still pending, Scott believes Joshua's recent victory boosts the excitement for their potential match. Wilder's camp remains optimistic about the outcome. Scott, during an interaction with October Red's YouTube channel, mentioned both he and Wilder felt that Joshua's knockout was the exact outcome they had hoped for. He explained:

"The knockout has made the anticipated fight even more significant. Kudos to Joshua for delivering. And a big salute to Helenius. Stepping into the ring with top contenders isn’t easy, more so on such short notice."

Helenius was a last-minute replacement for Dillian Whyte, who faced complications with a doping test shortly before the scheduled fight. Despite this sudden change, Helenius, known as the 'Nordic Nightmare,' managed to pull off a victory against Mika Mielonen in Finland just a week prior. However, Scott wasn't overly impressed with Joshua's performance. He stated:

"Aside from the knockout, there wasn't much to take note of. I'm more convinced than ever about Wilder's chances against Joshua. Give them three or four rounds, and I see Wilder overpowering him."

According to Scott, Wilder's aggressive stance sets him apart. He elaborated:

"If you looked closely, Joshua had some visible injuries during the Helenius fight. When Wilder faced Helenius, he emerged without a scratch. The difference lies in their approach. Wilder's punches pack more force, and he brings a unique fierceness to the ring."

Wilder last took on Helenius in a WBC world heavyweight title eliminator match in New York, finishing him in the first round. Before locking horns with Joshua, Wilder plans to face another opponent. Scott revealed:

"Ruiz isn’t eager to challenge Wilder. We're scouting for a fighter willing to risk it, even if it likely ends in another knockout victory for us."

After regaining consciousness, Robert Helenius found himself facing Anthony Joshua, the man who'd just knocked him out. Gratefully, Joshua thanked Helenius for ensuring the Joshua vs Helenius show went on. Remarkably, this was the second time in three bouts where a premier heavyweight knocked Helenius out, only to offer immediate appreciation and concern. Deontay Wilder, having trained with Helenius before, delivered a similar knockout in October of 2022. Beyond the boxing ring, they'd forged a friendship, and after losing to Tyson Fury, Wilder viewed the fight against Helenius both as a comeback and a way to assist him financially, despite the physical cost of the sport. Wilder later stressed the importance of respecting every fighter, acknowledging the latent risks and injuries they could face in the long run. Following the knockout, Helenius contemplated ending his boxing career. Speaking to The Independent's Alex Pattle, Helenius revealed he distanced himself from the sport for six months, focusing on powerlifting and minimizing his social media presence. Recalling his previous knockouts, Helenius shared his internal battle between the love for the adrenaline in boxing and concerns about potential long-term damage. However, he did make a return, defeating Mika Mielonen in the third round at the historic Olavinlinna. Not long after this victory, he was approached to fight Anthony Joshua, given Dillian Whyte’s test complications. Joshua, like Wilder, had previously sparred with Helenius but lacked the deep bond Wilder had with him. Helenius was viewed as a reputable opponent with minimal threat to bigger aspirations. Joshua’s choice to fight Helenius was also influenced by financial considerations and the welfare of undercard fighters dependent on the event. The boxing community, recalling Joshua’s past matches, anticipated a knockout. True to the script, Joshua defeated Helenius with a potent right hand. Gratefully, post-fight, Joshua acknowledged Helenius’s role in ensuring the event's success. Joshua expressed respect for Helenius after the Joshua vs Helenius bout, describing him as one of the few heavyweights he genuinely admired. For Helenius, this match was a testament to his resilience and commitment. As he frequently mentioned to reporters, he believed that no one remembers those who don’t take risks.

“I said you're very talented, and you could cause a lot of people some problems. So, continue, credit to you, and I appreciate you for helping save the show. It means a lot for me to box tonight, and Helenius played a big part in that, so I just gave him a pat on the back. Even though he wasn't successful in the ring, he's a massive success in saving this event,” Joshua said at the post-fight press conference, a photo of Helenius on the promotional step-and-repeat peering over his shoulder. “He's a good man,” Joshua added. “I don't really like many heavyweight boxers, but he's cool.”

Comparisons between former British heavyweight champion Frank Bruno and current star Anthony Joshua have been circulating for a while now. Bruno, a beloved figure in the boxing world, has recently shared his thoughts on a potential Wilder vs Joshua match, slated for either later this year or early next year. Joshua is currently in a rebuilding phase following consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk, the WBA, WBO, and IBF champion. His victory over Jermaine Franklin in April was hard-fought and not without its challenges. In his most recent bout against Robert Helenius, Joshua initially appeared cautious but later secured victory with a powerful overhand right in the 7th round. Before the Helenius fight, Bruno spoke to IFL TV, emphasizing that Joshua needed to deliver a "sensational" performance. Bruno suggested that the critical British press had been overly harsh on Joshua, and an impressive display could boost his confidence.

“Because everybody is on his case saying he hasn’t done this, he hasn’t done that. What he needs to do is look spectacular and give himself a bit more confidence because I think the British press has been a bit harsh on him lately.

Regarding a potential Wilder vs Joshua showdown, Bruno expressed his belief that such a match is premature for Joshua. Bruno opined that Joshua should gain more experience in the ring to bolster his self-assurance before stepping into the ring with Wilder. Mentally, Bruno felt Joshua needed to find his equilibrium and confidence, indicating that the Wilder bout was a couple of fights too early.

“He needs to have a few more fights to get his confidence up then when he goes in there he can do the damage. That fight I think it’s a couple of fights too early. Especially as how he’s feeling mentally. He needs to get his head right, his foundation right, and he can go forward then. That’s all he needs. “I’d love to see that fight. But AJ hasn’t got to rush that fight you know. Tyson’s desperate. He wants to get him in the ring as quick as possible and make as much money. But Joshua don’t have to rush. Just take his time and learn his trade.”

When asked about a future clash with Tyson Fury, Bruno showed enthusiasm for the matchup but advised Joshua not to rush into it. He believed that Fury was eager to face Joshua swiftly to capitalize on the financial aspect, but Bruno urged Joshua to take his time, hone his skills, and learn from his fights. Despite Bruno's counsel, it seems that the much-anticipated clash between Wilder and Joshua is indeed moving forward, as Wilder expressed satisfaction with Joshua's knockout victory over Helenius.

Robert Helenius stepped up as a late replacement opponent for Anthony Joshua in London, displaying remarkable courage. Joshua's willingness to embrace this last-minute change, despite past setbacks, and Helenius' determination to face the two-time champion with only six days' notice, rescued an otherwise precarious event. Joshua vs Helenius main event initially played out cautiously, with Joshua relying on his jab and Helenius not pushing aggressively. In the seventh round, Joshua unleashed a powerful right hand, swiftly concluding the match. According to a translated excerpt from Finnish source Yle Urheilu, Helenius mentioned a lack of memory regarding the impact of the blow, attributing it to his dwindling stamina. He expressed disappointment at the loss and the emotional toll it took.

“That was a big bang. I don’t remember the impact, my fitness was running out at that point. Of course it hurts, the heart the most. I would have really liked to win this match. We’ll see what comes of this.”

Despite the conclusive outcome of Joshua vs Helenius, Helenius believed he was making progress in the bout. Some of his shots caused Joshua's nose to bleed and resulted in minor swelling around his eye. Helenius reflected on missed opportunities to fully exploit Joshua's vulnerabilities, particularly with his left straights.

“I hit him well with left straights, and I noticed that he was a bit embarrassed by it. Should have just let the right one go. I hurt him many times and felt like I had the match in hand at one point. “I still feel that if I had been given 12 weeks for that match, the end result would not have been like that. It would have been the other way around. “I didn’t have the condition for 12 sets here. The better one won this time, that’s all … Even though I lost today, this left me with a good feeling. I will not comment on whether the career will continue.”

Helenius was convinced that a lengthier preparation period could have led to a different outcome of the Joshua vs Helenius bout, emphasizing that he lacked the conditioning for a full-length match. While he acknowledged the loss, he expressed a sense of contentment and refrained from commenting on his future in the sport. At 39 years old and with recent significant losses, Helenius' future in the heavyweight division appears uncertain. Meanwhile, Joshua's victory brings him a step closer to a potential clash with Deontay Wilder, potentially scheduled for January.

Emanuel Navarrete and Oscar Valdez's much-anticipated bout was a spectacle, as both fighters gave their all in a power-packed duel. The bout saw more than 10,000 ardent supporters, with a majority cheering for Valdez, the local favorite who spent parts of his childhood in Tucson, Ariz. Navarrete showcased a formidable offense, delivering over 1,000 punches and ultimately holding onto his WBO junior lightweight title. This victory cements his status as the leading contender in the 130-pound category. While there are calls for a rematch, considering the decisive nature of Navarrete's victory, he may be better suited for a new opponent. Among the options are a unification bout with Wales' Joe Cordina or potential matches against featherweight king Robeisy Ramirez and lightweight contender William Zepeda. Valdez put up a valiant effort, but his previous injuries, including a broken jaw from a 2018 match against Scott Quigg, seem to be catching up. His future in the ring, especially regarding title contests, remains uncertain. On the other side of the pond in LONDON, Anthony Joshua made his intentions clear with a seventh-round knockout of Robert Helenius. However, critics noted that for most of the match, Joshua appeared hesitant. His knockout came at the O2 Arena, a venue filled with memories for Joshua — it's where he debuted as a pro in 2013 and secured his first world heavyweight title in 2016. Although Joshua's finish against Helenius was powerful, questions about his approach arose. Joshua once had a reputation for being a relentless aggressor, but after a surprising loss to Andy Ruiz in 2019, he's adopted a more cautious strategy. If he faces Deontay Wilder in January, as anticipated, will this measured approach work? Meanwhile, Richard Torrez Jr., the Olympic silver medalist, continues to impress, this time with a first-round knockout against Willie Jake Jr. The young heavyweight is on a path to bigger challenges, and it will be intriguing to see how he shapes up against more seasoned opponents.  

Anthony Joshua, the former heavyweight champion, exhibited a spectacular performance at London's O2 Arena in Joshua vs Helenius, silencing critics with a one-punch knockout against Robert Helenius. While the initial rounds saw Joshua being cautious, the explosive finish marked his return to form after nearly three years without a stoppage win. McGregor, the MMA legend, was present at the arena, promoting his brand 'Forged Irish Stout'. Following Joshua's win, McGregor entered the ring, offering the champion a celebratory drink. He lauded Joshua's tactics, emphasizing the importance of patience in achieving greatness. The MMA superstar further appreciated Helenius's brave performance, especially since he was a last-minute replacement.

"Greatness don't rush. Joshua took his time, he landed a big heavy shot, I'm just happy Helenius got up. The fans should be grateful for the Finnish coming in, last minute replacement, no fear he gave a great performance, did himself proud and his team and I'm happy to see him get up. "Big congrats to AJ, big congrats to Eddie, big congrats Forged Irish Stout."

Adding to the evening's drama, McGregor unexpectedly challenged YouTuber KSI to a bare-knuckle boxing match, making a light-hearted jibe at KSI's boxing skills.

"I know your man KSI is in the crowd and he couldn't box eggs if he worked in an egg boxing factory. So if he wants to get in here I'll give him a final yoke, bare-knuckle if you want!"

KSI didn't shy away, responding on social media with humor and hinting at a possible matchup. Joshua, meanwhile, supported KSI, demonstrating camaraderie between the two.

"Good KO from AJ, shame Connor got him to drink that filth kmt [kiss my teeth]. Lmao [Laughing my a** off] just seen this. Jake Paul must be crying that I’ve got Connor on my d*** already and I didn’t even have to fight an MMA fighter."

AJ Replied to Conor Calling KSI a "b***ch":

"That's my guy!"

KSI's manager has confirmed the YouTuber has accepted McGregor's challenge:

"After KSI batters Fury, he’s coming to end Connor once and for all!"

Eddie Hearn, has indicated that the much-anticipated heavyweight face-off between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder could soon become a reality. This potential clash has been in the talks for years, especially during their peak reign as world champions. The discussions have intensified lately, bringing the fight closer to fruition. An exciting venue, Saudi Arabia, is being considered for this mega event in January. Interestingly, Prince Khalid bin Abdulaziz of Skill Challenge Entertainment was spotted at London’s O2 Arena during Joshua's recent Joshua vs Helenius bout. Joshua showcased his might against Robert Helenius, who stepped in as a substitute for Dillian Whyte. Whyte's rematch with Joshua was cancelled due to a failed anti-doping test from Dillian Whyte. Despite securing a win in Joshua vs Helenius, Joshua's performance received mixed reactions. Some sections of the audience expressed their dissatisfaction during the match, reminiscent of his previous match against Jermaine Franklin. However, Eddie Hearn praised Joshua's evolved approach under his new coach, Derrick James. This change was particularly evident when comparing Joshua's strategy against Helenius to his prior bouts. Recalling Wilder's impressive return after consecutive losses to Tyson Fury, where he secured a first-round victory against Helenius, Hearn shared plans for Joshua's upcoming matches. He told DAZN,

"The roadmap includes three fights - Helenius, then Wilder, followed by Fury. Regardless of the public's opinion, the team's vision is clear."

Hearn emphasized Joshua's growth over the years, saying:

"He's evolved into a seasoned heavyweight. Even though fans crave early-round knockouts, Joshua displayed patience and strategy against Helenius, eventually delivering one of the year's most memorable KOs."

With Prince Khalid and Skills Challenge attending Joshua vs Helenius match, efforts are underway to finalize the Joshua-Wilder fight. Hearn added:

"Joshua is primed for such marquee bouts. He's honed his approach, ensuring he minimizes risks."

Post his triumph over Helenius, when asked about his showdown with Wilder, a jovial Joshua hinted at carrying the heavyweight division to greater heights in his unique style.

In Joshua vs Helenius, at the iconic O2 Arena in London, Anthony Joshua demonstrated a return to form, securing a knockout against Robert Helenius in the 7th round. This victory marked the end of a knockout drought that had haunted Joshua for nearly three years. With this emphatic win, Joshua's record now stands at an impressive 26-3(23), while the seasoned fighter, Helenius, moves to 32-5(21). Boxing enthusiasts are abuzz with anticipation, as rumors suggest that Joshua's next bout could be a monumental showdown with Deontay Wilder, potentially scheduled for January in the Middle East. Although the knockout against Helenius will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come, critics have labeled Joshua's overall performance as overly cautious. In the initial rounds of Joshua vs Helenius, Helenius seemed to overshadow Joshua, leading to whispers of discontent among the audience. The climactic end to the Joshua vs Helenius fight, while exhilarating, also left many wondering if Joshua could have wrapped up the bout sooner. Comparisons with Wilder's quick victory over Helenius have only fueled such arguments. If Joshua intends to stand tall against a formidable opponent like Wilder, he'll need to bring more aggression and pace to the ring. Evaluations aside, Joshua's win over Helenius marked his first knockout victory since his 2020 bout against Kubrat Pulev. However, the lingering question remains: Was this performance potent enough to unsettle Team Wilder? While time will provide a definitive answer, the boxing community continues to speculate. In the world of boxing, where every move is under scrutiny, many believe that a more assertive Joshua would have subdued Helenius even faster.

In a thrilling encounter at London's O2 Arena, Filip Hrgovic managed to secure a last-round stoppage against Demsey McKean, a challenging southpaw opponent. The high-anticipation bout, streamed globally on DAZN, saw both fighters entering the ring with unblemished records. Hrgovic (15-0, 12 KOs), risking his IBF mandatory position, had previously encountered difficulty against another southpaw, Zhilei Zhang, leaving some spectators questioning the match's outcome. McKean (22-0, 14 KOs), making his twelve-round debut, began assertively, using his jab and his reach advantage from the outset. Hrgovic responded by targeting the body. As the match progressed, Hrgovic adjusted better to McKean's left-handed style, landing some powerful shots that likely impressed the judges. Entering the third round, McKean displayed commendable bodywork. However, Hrgovic's punches carried more force, and he began focusing on McKean's head. The match became more rugged as Ronnie Shields, from Hrgovic's corner, advised him to persist even when McKean attempted to clinch. By the end of the round, McKean looked fatigued, a dangerous sign when facing a fighter with Hrgovic's reputation. Hrgovic's accuracy shone in the fourth round, while both fighters seemed to slow down a tad in the fifth. Yet, McKean managed to land more punches than Hrgovic early on, only for Hrgovic to strike back powerfully. As the rounds advanced, fatigue became evident, especially in the sixth. The seventh started with primarily jabs, and the fight's intensity appeared to wane. In the subsequent rounds, McKean seemed to regain some vigor, but Hrgovic's few, potent shots kept the Australian boxer on edge. By the tenth round, McKean adopted a hit-and-hold strategy, which made the contest drag a bit. In the penultimate round, even though Hrgovic landed a significant punch, he frequently found himself against the ropes, with McKean capitalizing using faster hands. The climax arrived in the twelfth round when Hrgovic delivered a massive right hook that left McKean staggered. Although McKean managed to remain upright, the referee deemed it prudent to end the fight. Notably, Hrgovic did occasionally resort to some questionable blows during the bout. Looking ahead, Hrgovic's next opponent will be the victor of the Oleksandr Usyk vs. Daniel Dubois match on August 26. If Usyk retains his titles, many fans believe Hrgovic needs to enhance his stamina for the upcoming challenge.

Derek Chisora achieved a critical victory via unanimous decision against Gerald Washington, marking only his second win in the past six matches. At the onset, Chisora faced setbacks, including a severe cut near his right eye. Despite this, the 39-year-old showed resilience, ensuring Washington couldn't maintain an advantage, ultimately winning the favor of all three judges. Judge Marcus McDonnell scored the fight 98-93 in Chisora's favor, while Steve Gray (97-94) and Bob Williams (96-94) saw it as a closer contest. Washington gracefully acknowledged the decision at the o2 Arena. With this win, Chisora, whose record now stands at 34-13 (23) and has been in the ring for almost 17 years, hinted he isn't hanging up his gloves just yet. Chisora made a memorable entrance, sporting pink attire, and celebrated his role as a father by wearing a 'Girl dad' robe. Emotionally, he also embraced his two daughters before entering the ring. Meanwhile, Washington had been in discussions to challenge Anthony Joshua after Dillian Whyte's pullout but decided against it, opting for a match with Chisora. Chisora's current trainer, Malik Scott, is quite familiar with him, having lost to Chisora a decade prior. Chisora's career faced doubts after his defeat to Tyson Fury recently, but he rebounded with this latest fight. Chisora's strategy was to aggressively take on Washington, a tactic that got him injured in the second round. However, it wasn't from a punch, so wasn't marked as a knockdown. Washington exploited Chisora's approach, primarily using uppercuts. Chisora, persistent as always, attempted multiple stances to find a solid strike. As the fight progressed, despite injuries, Chisora started landing some good hits. By the seventh round, Washington's energy seemed to dwindle, allowing Chisora to pursue more aggressively. During the concluding rounds, Chisora occasionally connected, while Washington's earlier precision waned. Ultimately, Washington's reduced activity in the concluding rounds paved the way for Chisora to claim his 34th professional victory.