

In the unpredictable realm of professional boxing, last-minute replacements and unexpected twists often set the stage for riveting showdowns. Such was the case when former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua was slated to face his long-standing rival, Dillian Whyte, for a second time. However, fate had other plans, as a failed drug test by Whyte forced the bout’s cancellation.
Despite this, in the heart of chaos, another fighter emerged from the shadows, an unexpected gladiator ready to take the stage. Robert Helenius took this challenge stepping into the ring with only a week’s notice. The storm indeed arrived, but not in the form anyone expected. Glove disputes are not uncommon in the boxing world, with fighters often scrutinizing every detail to ensure a fair contest. In this case, the gloves chosen by David Ghansa, Joshua’s long-time friend and training camp manager, became the epicenter of controversy.
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Helenius vs. Joshua glove controversy sets boxing community abuzz
In the lead-up to the fight, it was reported Helenius and his team were livid, asserting that the padding on Joshua’s selected Leone gloves was different from what had been agreed upon. The Finnish fighter did not mince words, branding the situation as “disgusting bulls*t”. Johan Lindstrom, Helenius’ trainer, echoed the sentiment, expressing concern over the perceived lack of padding.
Anthony Joshua vs Robert Helenius had a gloves dispute as Helenius and his team were angry with what they viewed as less padding on one pair of AJ's Leone gloves. Helenius described it as: "Disgusting bulls***." Situation resolved on agreement Helenius will wear identical gloves. pic.twitter.com/Fsr5zDZCjL
— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) August 12, 2023
The glove debacle reverberated beyond the confines of the arena, sending shockwaves through the boxing world and capturing the attention of fans, fighters, and analysts alike. Social media platforms buzzed with discussions and debates, further fanning the flames of controversy.
A user named Reddrick claimed that these disputes were a never-ending saga in the sport.
Boxing’s never ending bullshit https://t.co/mWEqIx0IpC
— Reddrick🛑🛑 (@AGilliam11b) August 12, 2023
Another user thought that having identical gloves for big fights was the right choice.
Identical gloves is the way to go for a big match 💯
— kp (@YoBigBrotha) August 12, 2023
Moreover, a user hilariously pointed out the problems of gloves in the sport.
Glove dispute no.184858940 in boxing https://t.co/QyXUnCqZpP
— Tedzz🇶🇦🔮 (@TedzzUtd) August 12, 2023
However, a user thought that Helnius’ team was using tricks to gain an advantage over Joshua.
Pulling out all the tricks 🔥 https://t.co/WagEibgLZC
— Craig (@CraigSk92) August 12, 2023
Meanwhile, a user was concerned about the Finnish boxer’s well-being with less padded gloves.
“Helenius will wear identical gloves”. Hopefully he doesn’t suffer a broken hand. Seen this movie before. https://t.co/yNmVIlYhSV
— YouthSportsSanDiego 🏁 (@yssd) August 12, 2023
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As the boxing community grapples with this latest controversy, questions arise about the integrity of the sport and the responsibility of all involved parties to ensure fair competition. The Joshua vs. Helenius bout, which started as a replacement showdown, has now become emblematic of the larger challenges and controversies.
However, with the issue now solved fans will be up for an action-packed heavyweight showdown.
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What did you think about the glove dispute between the two camps hours before the fight? Let us know in the comments.
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