Anthony Joshua One-Punch KOs Robert Helenius in RD7, Wants Deontay Wilder Next | FIGHT HIGHLIGHTS

The stage was set at The O2 Arena in London for Anthony Joshua's (26-3, 23 KOs) second win on the bounce back trail since his split decision loss defeat to Oleksandr Usyk (20-0, 13 KOs) in August of 2022. The anticipation was high as fans eagerly awaited the rematch against Dillian Whyte, eight years after their initial encounter. However, a failed drug test forced Whyte out of the fight, leaving a void that needed to be filled. Amid rumors and speculation, Robert Helenius stepped up to take the challenge on a week's notice, saving the show and ensuring the event went on.

As the fight began, it was clear that Helenius (32-5, 21 KOs) was not to be underestimated. Taking the center of the ring, he showcased confidence and attempted to penetrate Joshua's defense with his right hand. The early rounds saw Joshua facing a determined opponent and struggling to find his rhythm. The O2 crowd grew restless, and boos echoed through the arena as Joshua appeared cautious in his approach.

However, boxing is a sport of twists and turns, and Joshua demonstrated his adaptability in the fourth round. Finding his rhythm, he began to land hard shots on Helenius, causing visible trouble for his opponent. Despite the earlier slow start, Joshua's power and determination hinted at what was to come.

The pivotal moment arrived in the seventh round, Joshua jabbed to Helenius body then unleashed a devastating right hand that connected with precision and force, the impact knocking out Helenius before he even hit the canvas. The thunderous right hand echoed through the arena, leaving once booing fans in jubilation of Joshua's display of power.

Post-fight, Joshua acknowledged Helenius' talent and determination, giving credit where it was due. "He's got talent, so I had to figure him out," Joshua said. "He was a late replacement, and I think he can cause a lot of people some problems ... credit to him for coming out tonight and saving the show."

As discussions about Joshua's future opponents continue, including the potential for a matchup against Deontay Wilder, representatives from Saudi Arabia convened in London over the weekend to deliberate on a potential clash between Joshua and Wilder (43-2-1, 42 KOs), as confirmed by Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn. Speaking in the ring following the event, Hearn declared, "That's the fight we want," Hearn said. "We have a three-fight plan: Robert Helenius, Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury."

Joshua expressed his willingness for a potential bout with Wilder as his next step, highlighting that such a clash would be a great moment for the sport of boxing. "Any time's a good time to fight," Joshua said. "It's only a fight. It don't matter who it is. It could've been Wilder eight years ago or Wilder now. It is what it is at the end of the day."