“Really Trying to Force the Hype Here”: Anthony Joshua’s Heated Face-off With Robert Helenius Draws Mixed Reactions From Fans

Ahead of their fight, Anthony Joshua and Robert Helenius had a heated face-off. Joshua, who feels he cannot fail, exchanged words with Helenius while Eddie Hearn watched the duo as the man in between. ‘AJ’, who is still in the process to bounce back from the losses he suffered against Oleksandr Usyk, admitted that he is under “good pressure” and would likewise try his best to “fight hard and win“.

The 33-year-old, who doesn’t want boxing to define him, would potentially face Deontay Wilder given he carries the day against Helenius in the ring. After Dillian Whyte tested positive for a certain banned stimulant and subsequently received a two-year ban from the sport, Joshua, feeling the need to keep the show going, agreed to face Helenius on short notice. Since Wilder has already been mentioned in light of Joshua vs. Helenius, it is also worth mentioning that Helenius is the same fighter Wilder brutally KOed in round 1 in his return to the ring.

Fans react as Anthony Joshua has yet another “cringe” moment at his face-off with Robert Helenius

Joshua’s heated face-off with his opponent Helenius did not sit right with boxing fans apparently. As per a number of them, the former unified Heavyweight champion, who recently felt the need to build momentum, is forcefully trying to get the fans excited for his contest with Helenius in the ring. Hence, one fan wrote, “AJ really trying to force the hype here, cringe really.”

According to another, “If that was Whyte or Wilder standing in front of him – he would never have said those words“.

However, one fan displayed faith in Joshua’s abilities. “AJ putting him to sleep for sure,” they announced.

Read More – Days After Failed Drug Test Fiasco, Eddie Hearn Remains Brutally Honest About the Future of a Rematch Between Dillian Whyte and Anthony Joshua

Meanwhile, one wrote, “AJ genuinely got rattled because Helenius wouldn’t acknowledge him. Mentally he seems so fragile.”

Although most of the words the duo exchanged sounded Greek, one tried to explain what ‘AJ’ most likely said.

What do you have to say about Joshua and Helenius’ face-off? Do you feel that the fighters are forcing hype? In addition, what do you expect from the bout? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below. For all the latest boxing updates, follow EssentiallySports.

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