Boxer, previously facing off with Anthony Joshua, announces retirement after completing a two-year ban for drug-related offenses, following a knockout loss in competition.
Robert Helenius Retires from Boxing After Final Fight Against Anthony Joshua
Robert Helenius, the Finnish heavyweight boxer, has announced his retirement from the sport following his final fight against Anthony Joshua in August 2023. The knockout loss, courtesy of Joshua's trademark looping right, marked the end of Helenius' 32-5 career.
Helenius had considered retirement after his previous fight against Deontay Wilder, but a lucrative opportunity against Joshua brought him back into the ring. However, the loss to Joshua was not the only setback for Helenius in his career.
In 2016, he suffered his first career defeat against Johann Duhaupas. The following years saw two more stoppage losses, one against Dillian Whyte and another against Gerald Washington. Despite these losses, Helenius managed to revive his career with a pair of back-to-back upset wins over Adam Kownacki.
Helenius' career was not without its highlights. He won the European heavyweight title and has had notable victories against prominent boxers like Lamon Brewster and former world champions. One of his most memorable fights was against Derek Chisora for the vacant European title in 2011, a fight that resulted in a split decision, with most believing Chisora deserved to win.
Another significant fight was his encounter with Deontay Wilder in 2020, a fight that still ranks among Wilder's most brutal KOs.
However, Helenius' career was marred by a doping scandal. After his seventh-round knockout loss to Anthony Joshua, Helenius tested positive for the banned substance clomifene. As a result, he received a two-year doping suspension.
Despite retiring from boxing, Helenius is not completely leaving the world of sports. After retirement, he plans to pursue a career as the head coach of the Nordic Nightmare Boxing Club in Porvoo, Finland.
Helenius admitted that a lack of inspiration to train hard was a reason for his retirement. However, he left the door open for a potential return, stating that he could be tempted to return to boxing for the right price and an interesting match. As of September 18, 2023, Helenius is eligible to box again.
