Boxing
Eddie Hearn predicts outcome of Anthony Joshua and Robert Helenius fight
Watch Joshua vs. Helenius live on DAZN
Eddie Hearn has predicted an Anthony Joshua knockout ahead of his fight with Robert Helenius on Saturday night live on DAZN.
Joshua has had to make drastic changes in the run-up to fight week with Helenius brought in as a last minute replacement opponent after Dillian Whyte was forced to remove himself from the O2 Arena main event due to adverse findings in a VADA test.
While Helenius may not be a name known to some boxing fans, he is a fighter who has challenged at the top level and has faced the likes of former WBC world champion Deontay Wilder.
Despite the opponent change, Joshua is still considered a favourite, but Hearn is aware of the threats the 39-year-old can pose.
"I believe it may be cagey early on. Helenius is very tall, he’s got a good jab himself and he can whack with the right hand, so AJ will need to be a little bit careful," Hearn told Betfred.
The Matchroom promoter then went onto make his prediction for the fight.
"I do believe AJ will detonate on his chin at some point and when he does, I believe he will take him out," Hearn continued.
“As smart as whack is at times and as awkward as he can be, when he gets hit hard on the chin, he’s susceptible. I believe AJ will find the shot and he will knock him out within six rounds. I bloody hope so.”
