ANTHONY JOSHUA's immediate reaction to Dillian Whyte's latest doping scandal has been revealed by Eddie Hearn.
Joshua's rematch with his long-time rival went up in smoke last weekend when it emerged the Brixton Body Snatcher had failed multiple pre-fight drug tests.
A frantic scramble to find a new opponent for AJ resulted in Matchroom Boxing and promoter Hearn drafting in "Nordic Nightmare" Robert Helenius on six days' notice.
Joshua, 33, had nothing but sympathy for Hearn after Whyte's potential third-career anti-doping violation and conveyed that in a text message shortly after learning of the news.
When asked what the former unified heavyweight champion's reaction was, Hearn told Boxing Social: “Great Morning.
Anthony Joshua advised to "play the game" by heavyweight boxing legend
"I can only imagine the time and effort you and your team have put into organising a fight night.
"Just to say sorry about the news.
"Thank you for all you and Matchroom do for me, it’s appreciated and I never take it for granted.”
Joshua broke his silence on the scandal after Helenius was confirmed as his short-notice opponent, although he didn't reveal his full thoughts on Whyte's potentially career-threatening failed drug tests.
He said: "This wasn’t in the script. I respect Helenius and may I say, I respect any male or female who steps into the ring.
CASINO SPECIAL - BEST ONLINE CASINOS FOR 2023
"I am laser-focused on the win.
"I can make steps forward to bigger and better things but the road map has a checkpoint, Saturday night.
"May the best man win.”
Brit fan favourite Whyte is facing a third and potentially career-marring battle to clear himself.
Joshua told 'play the game' by boxing icon Evander Holyfield after Usyk defeats
And the former WBC heavyweight title challenger, 35, has vowed to prove his innocence and clear his name.
???? Anthony Joshua vs Robert Helenius: How to watch, UK start time, live stream details ????
He said: "I am shocked and devastated to learn of a report by VADA of adverse findings relating to me.
"I only learned of it this morning and am still reacting to it.
"I have also just seen the fight is being cancelled without having any chance to demonstrate my innocence before the decision was taken.
"I can confirm without a shadow of a doubt that I have not taken the reported substance, in this camp or at any point in my life.
"I am completely innocent and ask to be given the time to go through the process of proving this without anybody jumping to conclusions or a trial by media."
