Though the fight culminated in a stunning seventh round knockout victory, there were some observers who believe there were some concerning signs for Anthony Joshua in his fight against Robert Helenius this past weekend.
Joshua seemed to have trouble getting his best shots off against the 39 year old Finn, who was drafted in on a week’s notice after original opponent Dillian Whyte returned an adverse analytical finding in a pre fight VADA test.
And corner cam footage, which was posted on DAZN Boxing’s YouTube channel this week, appears to lend credence to the view of those who thought ‘AJ’ was struggling offensively against Helenius.
Joshua can be heard telling trainer Derrick James, “It’s hard to find the right hand,” to which the straight talking Texan simply replied, “Just keep trying!”
James’ advice would prove to be just what the doctor ordered, as the former unified world champion brought proceedings at the O2 to a close in the very next round.
He landed the exact shot that had proved so elusive and claiming one of the most eye catching knockouts of his professional career.
However, if a blockbuster against Deontay Wilder in Saudi Arabia is to be next, there’s a view amongst many pundits that Joshua will need to find further improvement if he is to get his hand raised.
Speaking to the media in the early hours of Sunday morning, the Brit himself even said he would like to have two more run outs under James before the end of the year.
Due to the planning and promotion that is required for Joshua’s fights, as well as the mega-money on offer from Saudi for the Wilder fight, this seems like wishful thinking in the extreme.