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.

Upon arriving at Westfield’s Shepherd’s Bush for his pre-fight weigh-in, Derek Chisora didn't appreciate the humorous greeting from comedian Troy Hawke. Before his scheduled fight against Gerald Washington at the O2 Arena in London, Chisora was visibly irritated when Hawke teased him with descriptors like 'adorable' and likened him to a 'menacing tablecloth.'

“You look divine, a one man efficacious fun fair, I love it. Couldn’t love it harder.”

Troy Hawke, who rose to internet fame with his humorous interviews during Manchester City's 2022/2023 pre-season American tour, tried his comedic antics on Chisora. However, Chisora didn't seem to share the amusement that Manchester City players once did. He sternly warned Hawke after the comedian continued with his playful remarks, telling him to refrain from calling him “adorable.”

“Tell me I’m adorable again, and I’ll f*** you up.”

The interaction took a comedic turn when Hawke made a witty comment about Chisora's outfit, comparing his red and white ensemble to a picnic blanket. The public found this jest quite entertaining, with many praising Hawke's audacity to jest with a professional boxer of Chisora's stature.

“Dangerous Looking Tablecloth.”

While Chisora wasn't amused, other famous faces like Anthony Joshua and Eddie Hearn seemed to enjoy Hawke's humorous approach. Later at the weigh-in, Chisora clocked in at 17.9 stone, which is 14 lbs more than his opponent, Gerald Washington. The British boxer, known as Del Boy, is making a comeback to the ring after a significant pause following his loss to Tyson Fury. Prior to that setback, Chisora had managed a victory over Kubrat Pulev but had suffered three consecutive defeats. Tonight's match, which features Chisora and Washington, is part of the undercard for the much-anticipated face-off between Anthony Joshua and Robert Helenius. A win for Chisora might pave the way for him to make one last attempt at a world title.

Frank Warren, who manages WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, recently shared his thoughts on Anthony Joshua during an episode of William Hill’s podcast, Up Front with Simon Jordan. Warren expressed doubt in Joshua's current form, suggesting he's vulnerable to losing against any top-tier opponent right now. This weekend, Joshua is set to fight Robert Helenius, after his initial match against Dillian Whyte was canceled. Whyte's participation was halted after questionable results emerged from his drug test with VADA. Were Warren in charge of Joshua's matches, he'd pit him against Fury without hesitation. However, it appears Joshua has his sights set on a bout with ex-WBC champion Deontay Wilder, targeting a January date. Sharing his candid views, Warren stated, that If he managed Joshua, he'd have arranged a face-off with Fury without a doubt. He suggested that even after Joshua's bout with Oleksandr Usyk, he would've pushed for a match with Fury since Joshua didn't physically suffer much. Although Warren hinted at a potential psychological impact from that loss, he believes Joshua's confidence has been waning for some time. He further questioned Joshua's future match-ups by saying, If he’s steering clear of a rematch with Usyk, who holds a majority of the titles, and isn’t aiming for a match with the WBC titleholder, which is Tyson Fury, then what’s his game plan? Is he anticipating improving significantly to challenge these fighters? That's the narrative being presented, but I'm not buying it.

“If I was Anthony Joshua’s promoter I’d make him fight Tyson Fury,” Warren said to William Hill. “I even would’ve put him in against Fury two months after he fought Oleksandr Usyk, he didn’t take a beating in that fight. It may have been a psychologically damaging outcome for Joshua, but he has been psychologically gone for a couple of years now. “You wouldn’t particularly want to see Joshua in the ring against Usyk again, so if he’s not going to fight Usyk, who is the man with most of the belts, and he doesn’t want to fight the holder of the WBC belt which is Tyson Fury, then what does he want to do? Does he think he’s going to get any better to be able to take these guys on? That’s what they’re trying to sell, and they’re selling bullsh!t.”

Meanwhile, Fury is prepping for an October 28 match where he'll face ex-UFC champion Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia.

Former heavyweight titleholder Anthony Joshua is gearing up for a Joshua vs Helenius this Saturday, where he'll face off against Robert Helenius at London's O2 Arena. Helenius steps into the ring after Dillian Whyte, the original contender, was disqualified from the bout due to testing positive for prohibited substances. Interestingly, just the previous week, Helenius notched a victory and even postponed a family trip to seize this sudden opportunity in London. A win for Joshua might pave the way for a high-profile bout with ex-WBC champion, Deontay Wilder. It's worth noting that Wilder defeated Helenius in a single round last October. People will inevitably draw parallels between Joshua's and Wilder's performances against Helenius. With determination, Joshua remarked that he can't afford to falter. The pressure is healthy. I need to give it my all and emerge victorious. While comparisons are inevitable, Joshua vs Helenius bout is unique. It's not about what Wilder did or what anyone else did. It's about Joshua and Helenius confrontation in the ring. Given the high stakes, Joshua is keenly aware of the challenge posed by Helenius. Underestimating Helenius would be a mistake. He's all in for this. With nothing to lose, he’s bound to give his best. While it promises to be an engaging match, my aim is to knock him out as early as possible. He should be more concerned about me, just as I remain focused on my strategy, shared Joshua.

“I can’t fail. That’s good pressure. Fight hard and win. There’re always going to be comparisons, but this is my fight with Helenius. Not Wilder’s fight, or anyone else’s fight. It’s just me and him. “It’s the wrong mindset with Helenius. He is going to roll the dice. What’s he got to lose? It’s going to be a good fight but I want to take him out in round one if I can. I need to take him out. Helenius has got to worry about me, and I’ve got to worry about myself.”

In his subsequent partnership with coach Derrick James, Joshua is keen on putting up a stronger show than in his previous match. After two consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk, the British luminary made a comeback last April, clinching a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over Jermaine Franklin.

While a lucrative bout with Deontay Wilder might be on the horizon for Anthony Joshua, he can't overlook the challenge presented by the sudden substitute, Robert Helenius, for Joshua vs Helenius bout, this Saturday night. Yet, another fighter on the undercard at the O2 Arena has a different take. He suggests Joshua should aim for a swift conclusion to the Joshua vs Helenius bout. In a recent chat with Matchroom Boxing, Derek Chisora voiced that Joshua will face criticism if he doesn't dominate Helenius within the initial rounds. He hoped that Joshua catches wind of this. If he doesn't secure a knockout within the first three rounds, it'll raise eyebrows. He should aim to finish this in the early rounds, letting everyone head home earlier. Chisora further emphasized, He shouldn’t be using this match for practice. He should swiftly finish it. In his bout with Franklin, he was more explorative, but now the audience wants assertiveness.

“Listen, I hope ‘AJ’ sees this. If he doesn’t knock this guy out in three rounds, it’s going to be embarrassing. He needs to knock this guy out in one, two or three. So we can have an early night and go home.” “I don’t want him to try and learn or anything. Go in there and put this guy to sleep. With Franklin he was learning and getting his shots off.” “The public need that from him. He doesn’t need it, the fans need it.”

Joshua was set to have a rematch with his well-known competitor, Dillian Whyte. However, due to discrepancies in Whyte's VADA test results, he had to step back. Fortunately for the fans, Helenius stepped in on short notice, ensuring the event continues, and providing Joshua with another opportunity to work with his new coach, Derrick James. It's interesting to note that 'The Nordic Nightmare', Helenius, recently had a casual bout in Finland. However, his most notable recent match was a loss to Wilder in October 2022, where he was defeated in the first round.

Two-time heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua, recently opened up about the physical toll of his training camp as he gears up for Joshua vs Helenius showdown this weekend. Previously, Dillian Whyte, who was supposed to fight Joshua, couldn't pass a VADA test. This left Matchroom Boxing and Eddie Hearn in a rush to find another heavyweight contender to keep the event alive. Helenius, who interestingly was practicing his boxing in a castle in Finland when Whyte's test results came out, eagerly filled the vacancy. Helenius hopes to mirror Andy Ruiz Jr's shocking win over Joshua in 2019, where Ruiz was a last-minute substitute. Discussing his current state, Joshua shared with Antoine Speaks about feeling the wear and tear of his preparation for the 29th bout of his career. He stated that it feels like I'm worn out and feel every bit of the rigorous training, but that just means I'm ready to give it my all in the ring. He further emphasized the importance of his victory by saying that the end goal is to have my hand lifted in triumph. We're constantly chasing goals and as a piece of advice, budding athletes should always keep their eyes on the present challenge. He also talked about his last minute opponent changing experience, I've had experience with last-minute changes in opponents. This is my third time facing such a situation. But my primary focus remains – securing a win.

“I feel tired, battered and bruised and I feel that I train hard which means I can fight hard.” “My hand being raised is the most important thing, rather than looking at anything else. There’s always a carrot that’s being dangled in front of us, but it’s been like that forever and I think that young athletes should always focus on what they have in front of them. Like myself, I’m a young athlete and a veteran as well now, I’ve been around late replacements, this is the third time this has happened, I just need to get my hand raised, get in there and do the job.”

The much-anticipated Joshua vs Helenius bout is scheduled to be held at the O2 Arena this Saturday, August 12. The event will also host three additional heavyweight battles.

As the Joshua vs Helenius bout, Anthony Joshua has been introspective, revisiting some past defeats in his boxing journey. The most memorable among these was his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk in Saudi Arabia the previous year. Although many believed Joshua showed a stronger performance in this rematch, he couldn't reclaim the heavyweight world championship title from Usyk. During a session with DAZN Boxing, when asked about his most painful defeat, Joshua candidly expressed his disappointment with his performance in the rematch against Usyk, labeling it as weak. He shared that performance against Usyk in our second bout wasn't up to the mark. I never saw myself losing. Boxing is my life, my all. Discussing it even now is emotional. In this sport, it's all about the wins. There are no consolation prizes.

"Usyk 2 was a weak performance from me. I wasn’t supposed to lose in my head. I give my life to this game, I give everything. Even talking about it now makes me choke up a bit. When you put everything into something and it’s not easy. The only thing we get credit for is winning. There’s no silver medal in boxing."

British boxing enthusiasts eagerly await Joshua's upcoming Joshua vs Helenius fight, set to take place at the O2 Arena in London. Initially, Joshua was slated to go up against his long-standing rival, Dillian Whyte. However, due to an unexpected result in Whyte's VADA test, he had to pull out. Fortunately, Matchroom Promotions swiftly arranged for Helenius to step in, ensuring that the event continues as planned. This Joshua vs Helenius match offers Joshua another opportunity to showcase his skills, this time trained by Derrick James. Should Joshua prevail this Saturday, there's strong speculation that a much-anticipated fight with the formidable American boxer, Deontay Wilder, might be on the cards for January next year.

Terence Crawford appears to have changed his stance on a potential bout with 135-lb secondary champion Gervonta Davis. He now seems willing to face Davis, but only if Davis is prepared to move up 12 lbs to the 147 weight class. Some argue that if Crawford had been more open to negotiation earlier, he might have secured more lucrative matches before retiring. While many believe a face-off with Canelo Alvarez at 168 or other fighters like David Benavidez, David Morrell Jr., and Caleb Plant would be appealing, Crawford's recent demands suggest he believes he's the primary draw in boxing. This is evidenced by his apparent refusal to meet Davis at a catchweight between 135 and 147, implying he sees himself as the dominant figure in such a match-up. Furthermore, Crawford's suggestion to face Mexican boxing icon Canelo Alvarez at a 158-lb catchweight, well below Canelo's regular 168-lb, raises eyebrows. Some think Crawford's negotiation strategy is reminiscent of Andy Ruiz Jr.'s, who has been criticized for his unreasonable match demands.

“No knock to Tank, but there are definitely levels. If he thinks he’s going knock Terence Crawford out, he has another thing coming. I’d stay at 147 lbs for him; that’s a big money fight. But nobody’s going give me credit. Tank’s like 5’5,” he’s a little guy,” said Terence Crawford to the BreakfastClubAM about his willingness to fight Gervonta Davis if he comes up twelve lbs to 147, without being given a catchweight.

Addressing the buzz, Crawford mentioned in an interview with BreakfastClubAM that if Davis believes he can defeat him, he's mistaken. Crawford emphasized that he's willing to maintain his 147 lbs weight for such a bout, dismissing Davis's stature by pointing out his height. Following his win over Errol Spence Jr., some critics feel Crawford's self-perception may have shifted. While a rematch with Spence seems likely due to potential contractual obligations, many are skeptical about Crawford landing high-profile fights with Jermell Charlo, Canelo, or Davis. Some observers predict that Crawford might end up facing opponents like Brian Mendoza, Sebastian Fundora, or Erickson Lubin instead.

Derek Chisora has consistently remained unafraid to voice his unfiltered opinions, and this week was no different as he allegedly disclosed the substantial sum of money that Tyson Fury is expected to earn for his controversial Fury vs Ngannou bout. The boxing community had been more inclined to witness WBC and linear heavyweight champion Fury go up against Ukrainian fighter Oleksandr Usyk, competing for all four major world title belts. Even Ngannou empathizes with the collective frustration stemming from this situation. After negotiations faltered earlier this year, Fury pivoted to a highly profitable Fury vs Ngannou match against former UFC champion Ngannou. In the meantime, Usyk is slated to defend his WBA, WBO, and IBF titles against British contender Daniel Dubois in Poland on August 26. Chisora, who himself suffered a loss to the Gypsy King by a 10th-round stoppage at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in December of last year, shared his thoughts on the criticism Fury has faced for taking the Fury vs Ngannou fight in an interview with FightHub TV. Chisora mocked by syaing they don't know how much he [Fury] is getting paid that is why they are unable to keep their mouth shut. He said:

"They don't know how much Tyson's getting paid, that's why they criticize him."

Chisora being Chisora then revealed the exact amount of pay that Fury is getting paid for Fury vs Ngannou, he said:

"He's earning $50 million."

The amount is undeniably staggering and not the first instance of Fury stepping away from boxing for a lucrative opportunity. He participated in the WWE Crown Jewel event in 2019, securing a victory over Braun Strowman via count-out. Fury has expressed a desire to return to wrestling at some point in the future because it's easy to get paid there with minimum damage chances. Fans are undoubtedly hopeful that this won't delay the most awaited boxing bouts against heavyweight giants opponents like Anthony Joshua or Usyk.

Yesterday, Eddie Hearn visited the Limehouse Boxing Gym. He talked to FTTV about his visit and called it "soul-cleansing day".  When asked about what it means to help the community at the Limehouse, he answered:

"It was a soul-cleansing day. Firstly, on a business level, boxing has been good to us, and it feels right to invest in the community and grassroots boxing. Secondly, on a personal level, there's immense joy in seeing kids move in a positive direction. With two kids of my own, one attending a boxing club, I've observed firsthand how it enhances their confidence, physical and mental health, and instills values like discipline and respect." It's more than just winning championships; it's about fostering positivity and health."

During the interview with FTTV, he further talked about AJ, mentioning lots of career opportunities in world of boxing.

"AJ mentioned years ago the numerous opportunities in boxing — not just being a fighter but also roles like trainer, promoter, manager, lawyer, media, photographer, and even security. The community's involvement in boxing extends beyond just the matches. It's about providing avenues for learning, growth, and personal development."

When asked about the upcoming weekend Joshua vs Helenius fight in the FTTV interview, He replied:

"There's a palpable nervousness. We've been here before — on the cusp of the Wilder fight — only to face a last-minute replacement due to a failed drug test. However, this time, the hope is that experience will guide our reactions differently."

He then credited Joshua for stepping up and taking this replacement fight by cutting his purse just so undercard fighters got payed for their hard work during the whole long training camp.

"Anthony Joshua, deserves immense credit. He took a hit on the pay but was insistent on performing. It's not just about him; it's also about the undercard fighters, many of whom have invested significantly in their training."

He also mentioned George Littleton in the FTTV interview as a promising young talent and before ending the FTTV interview, he talked about hoping Joshua win the fight so that he can make the most awaited Joshua vs Wilder fight.

"A notable mention was George Littleton, an emerging talent who has shown immense promise early in his career. His pairing with Kevin Mitchell is promising, with many expecting Mitchell to be an outstanding trainer. With AJ headlining this non-pay-per-view event, there's an expectation for a significant show, potentially one of the best. However, the financial dynamics have shifted significantly, affecting everyone involved, from the promoters to the fighters. The aim now is to look forward to the show, hoping for a performance that would elevate AJ's status further and make the awaited Wilder fight even more tantalizing."

Watch the Full Interview here:

Eddie Hearn, the promoter of former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, has expressed that the possibility of a rematch between Joshua and Dillian Whyte seems unlikely to ever happen. In 2015, Joshua defeated Whyte by knockout in the seventh round. The scheduled rematch, set to take place this Saturday at London's O2 Arena, had to be canceled due to "adverse findings" in Whyte's drug testing conducted by VADA. These findings were revealed by Hearn through social media last Saturday. As a result, Whyte has been replaced by Robert Helenius for the upcoming fight. In an interview with IFL TV, Hearn disclosed that Whyte tested positive for a performance-enhancing drug but couldn't provide specific details due to legal constraints from Whyte's team. When asked if the rematch might happen in the future, Hearn confirmed that the chances were slim. Hearn explained that handling such a situation involves a lengthy process, citing the case of Conor Benn and his positive drug tests. He emphasized that at the age of 35, it might be challenging for Whyte to navigate this process successfully. Hearn expressed his surprise at the situation, given Whyte's previous meticulous approach to his training. He acknowledged that while people want to believe in those who test positive, it's a matter that needs to be addressed seriously.

"Yeah, I think so. I don't know what Dillian is gonna do or how he's gonna go about this situation - but it's a huge, huge fight on his hands. We've been a year, over a year, in process with Conor Benn [and his positive drug tests]. He's now been reinstated in the WBC rankings, he's had his suspension lifted and cleared by UKAD and we're just coming out the other side of it.. you know, 12 or 13 months on," Hearn explained to Boxing With Chris Mannix. "You can imagine that Dillian Whyte has to go through a similar process with a different set of results and analysis that we've seen. And at that age [of 35], you know, is that a process that [Whyte] can come through the other side of. "We wish him all the best. And again, I was surprised. You always believe and you want to believe in those people [who test positive]. It's not something that I would expect from him, knowing the meticulous way that he goes about his work and how careful he is after previous incidences that he was exonerated for, but you also can't ignore it and it has to be dealt with."

This incident marks the third drug testing controversy in Whyte's career. He faced a two-year ban in 2012 due to a positive drug test and had another positive test in 2019, although he was later cleared of those charges by UKAD.

Derek Chisora, with a record of 33 wins, 13 losses, and 23 knockouts, aims to make a comeback this Saturday when he faces off against Gerald Washington in a ten-round bout at London's O2 Arena. This match is set to be an appetizer before the main event where Anthony Joshua takes on Robert Helenius. In Chisora's most recent bout in December 2022, he suffered a defeat from Tyson Fury, the WBC world champion. However, earlier in the same year, Chisora had a notable victory over Kubrat Pulev, clinching a split decision in their second face-off. For Chisora, a setback against Washington, holding a record of 20 wins, 5 losses, 1 draw, and 13 knockouts, might hint at a close to his boxing chapter. Yet, Chisora remains upbeat. He draws parallels between his love for each of his fights and his love for his two children - unwavering and equal. He acknowledges Washington's strength, hinting he may opt for a strategy to keep distance. Regardless, Chisora is resolute, emphasizing that while he respects Washington outside the ring, once they're in it, he's prepared to give it his all.

"They are all big fights for me, all the fights are my babies, from the first fight to when I have my last fight, I love them all. I got two kids and I love them the same way, I don’t love one better than the other and it’s the same with my fights," Chisora said. "I know what Gerald is going to bring, he’ll put his Usain Bolt shoes on and he’s going to run, but that’s OK, we’re going to chase him, find him and mess him up. I won’t lie, he’s my friend, but when I get in the ring, I’ll eat this guy up. "All fights you have to win, sometimes it’s not your day; man makes plans and God laughs at him. I can say I’m going to KO him in three rounds and it goes the 12. I wanted to win all the fights I’ve lost."

Washington's recent track hasn't been smooth either, facing defeat in three of his last four fights. But in 2019, he managed to secure a knockout win against Helenius, the same boxer set for the main event against Joshua. This upcoming match with Chisora will be Washington's first since January 2022.

An individual who expressed interest in replacing Dillian Whyte on short notice to face Anthony Joshua at London's O2 Arena has asserted that Joshua is facing mental challenges. This situation isn't unfamiliar to Joshua, as he's previously encountered opponent changes just days before a fight. For instance, Kubrat Pulev withdrew due to an injury in 2018, and Jarrell Miller faced multiple failed drug tests before Joshua's US debut in 2019. In a similar instance, Andy Ruiz Jr. stepped in on a prior occasion, resulting in a disastrous outcome for Joshua as he lost his titles before regaining them in a rematch. Considering this history, Joshua's team has been cautious in selecting a replacement, and Mahmoud Charr believes he was overlooked due to this careful consideration. Charr, who was once the WBA regular world heavyweight champion, had a fight canceled due to a failed drug test in 2018, and he was subsequently stripped of his title in 2021 due to inactivity. He has faced losses against opponents like Vitali Klitschko, Alexander Povetkin, and Mairis Briedis. Charr disclosed in an interview with Seconds Out that he had offered to step in for this weekend's fight, proposing the same purse as Dillian Whyte's. He expressed confidence in his capabilities and mentioned that he's a more substantial opponent than Whyte. However, Matchroom, Joshua's promoter, appeared to be seeking an easier opponent, according to Charr.

“I told him, listen, give me the same purse bid you offered to Dillian Whyte, I will fight. Who’s Dillian Whyte? I was the last WBA champion, I never lost. I was ready. I am bigger than Dillian Whyte.”

Charr implied that Joshua might not be willing to face him due to his belief that Joshua is mentally struggling. Despite his confidence in his abilities, it's clear that Charr will not get the opportunity to prove his theory. Instead, Robert Helenius will be the one stepping in to fight Joshua at the O2 Arena.

“They’re looking for an easy opponent. It’s not about money, trust me. I think Joshua is not ready to fight me, that’s the problem. If he is a real man he would say yes I will take Charr. I know one punch on his skin and I will break his chin. He’s not strong, he knows he’s mentally broken.”