August 10, (THEWILL) – Boxing has a doping problem, according to former world heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua, but the British fighter is uncertain if longer bans are the solution.
Joshua was scheduled to fight compatriot, Dillian Whyte, this weekend, but the bout was cancelled after Whyte failed a drug test conducted by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association. Joshua will now face late replacement, Robert Helenius of Finland on Saturday.
Whyte is the latest in a series of high-profile boxers to fail doping tests, including Amir Khan, Conor Benn and current heavyweight champion Tyson Fury. Joshua said the problem stems from fighters training in local gyms with dubious connections.
While frustrated, Joshua avoided directing anger at Whyte, saying he hopes it was a mistake. Rather than advocating for harsher penalties, Joshua believes the focus should be preventing doping at amateur levels. As an elite professional, the former champion, is drug tested year-round.
Joshua agreed to fight Helenius out of respect for his team and broadcaster DAZN. Helenius, who has sparred with Joshua, said he is ready for the challenge despite having been knocked out by Deontay Wilder last year.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
