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Robert Helenius Hints at Retirement After First Round Knockout Loss Against Deontay Wilder: ‘I am Out’

Published 10/17/2022, 7:30 AM EDT

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‘The Bronze Bomber’, Deontay Wilder, is undoubtedly one of the most prolific heavyweight boxers of the 21st century. Wilder recently came out of a yearlong hiatus to showcase one of the most powerful performances of his career against ‘The Nordic Nightmare’, Robert Helenius. In a wholesome display of fair play, Wilder recently visited Helenius after their fight. And also expressed concern for his well-being. Meanwhile, it also seems like Helenius wishes to retire from the sport.

Wilder returned to action for the first time after his loss against Tyson Fury in 2021. And faced Helenius at the Barclays Center in New York City on October 15, 2022. He surprised the boxing fraternity and fans by scoring a spectacular knockout in the very first round.

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Helenius, who was disoriented after the knockout, was immediately taken to the hospital. He later updated fans on social media that he did not suffer any serious injuries.

via Getty

Meanwhile, in the post-fight interview, Wilder expressed his concerns about Helenius’ health. He visited Helenius, where the duo shared a warm embrace. ‘The Bronze Bomber’ commended Helenius for his performance. The duo further discussed the event. This was when Helenius hinted at possible retirement, saying, “This is your time now. I have to say I am out. I am 38 years old. I have been doing this for 25 years.”

Helenius also thanked Wilder for giving him the opportunity to fight.

Deontay Wilder apologizes to Robert Helenius

Deontay Wilder might be a formidable force inside the ride. However, outside the ring, he is a wholesome individual who wears his heart on his sleeve. Wilder further embraced Helenius once again while getting emotional. He then opened up about the knockout punch while also apologizing for the same.

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He said, “I know personally that you have got a warrior’s heart. And that is what I love the most about you. I know it is my job, but it hurt my heart to see you down as I look at you as one of my brothers. I never want to hurt any of my brothers.”

Wilder also stressed that boxers deserve respect for what they put their body through. The boxing world, on the other hand, is elated at The Bronze Bomber’s return. And are anticipating more powerful performances in the future.

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Will Helenius retire from the sport? Do share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Written by:

Joshua Ben Joseph

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Joshua Ben Joseph is a Boxing writer for EssentiallySports. He started his career as an editorial cartoonist and holds a BFA degree with a specialization in Animated Filmmaking and Screenwriting from AISFM, Hyderabad. An avid lover of boxing history, Joshua believes his writing extends his lifelong adoration for combat sports.
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Edited by:

Ajinkya Aswale