Deontay Wilder vs. Robert Helenius is scheduled for 12 rounds in the heavyweight division this weekend from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Last seen on the wrong end of a savage stoppage against Tyson Fury, The Bronze Bomber hopes to return at the demise of the suddenly surging Helenius.
Former WBC champion Wilder is a major favorite at -800. Helenius, a one-time prospect who has seen better days, is a +500 underdog.
We break this heavyweight bout down with our Wilder vs. Helenius picks and predictions.
Jump to:
Deontay Wilder vs Robert Helenius odds
| Method of victory | Deontay Wilder | Robert Helenius |
|---|---|---|
| Win outright | -800 | +500 |
| Win by KO/TKO/DQ | -450 | +800 |
| Win by decision or technical decision | +600 | +1,400 |
| Draw | +2,500 | +2,500 |
Odds courtesy of DraftKings as of October 13, 2022.
Deontay Wilder vs Robert Helenius betting predictions
Picks made on October 13. Click on each pick to jump to the full analysis.
If you’re signing up for a new sportsbook for boxing betting, here are two of the best bonuses* available:
A) New users at FanDuel can get a no-sweat first bet of up to $1,000! Sign Up Now
B) New users at DraftKings can get a deposit bonus up to $1,000! Sign Up Now
*Eligible USA locations only
Deontay Wilder vs Robert Helenius betting preview
Wilder fighting Helenius shouldn’t be that much of a surprise. Both men have been out for the same amount of time and sparred with each other ahead of Wilder’s third fight with Fury last year. While Helenius is on a hot streak, he’s far removed from his promising prime.
About a decade ago, Helenius was building a head of steam and looking like a legitimate threat in the heavyweight division. Injuries and contractual issues started to wear him down, then came two KO losses to former Wilder victims Johan Duhaupass and Gerald Washington.
Back-to-back wins over previously unbeaten Adam Kownacki saw a return to the big brawling style of his heyday, but Wilder is a different animal altogether.
Though Wilder floated the idea of retiring after another loss to Fury, he believes he has enough in the tank just a few weeks shy of his 37th birthday. Wilder no doubt remains brutishly strong, but questions linger about his mental state and confidence after being away so long in the ring.
Wilder is an unorthodox fighter, mostly because he’s sloppy and clumsy, but his right hand remains the best punch in boxing.
Wilder carries his power well and can land his touch of sleep anytime. However, his power is predicated on having his opponent lined up to throw it down the middle. Fury avoided those shots with his movement and crowded Wilder constantly. Should Helenius do that, he could give Wilder trouble.
Though Wilder is rightfully favored, this isn’t an easy fight. Wilder believes he’s got enough for another run at the title, and Helenius has been fighting like a man with nothing to lose. We could get a captivating fight that unfolds between two big punchers.
Deontay Wilder vs Robert Helenius boxing prediction and best bet
Prediction: Wilder ML (-800)
While we aren’t 100% confident here, Wilder should come out on top simply because there is not a point in the fight where he can’t land his right hand. Helenius has been chopped down by lesser punchers before, and it’s hard imagining a 37-year-old swiftly moving around the ring for 12 rounds without taking any punishment.
At his best, Helenius charged his way inside and made it work. While this fight might have been more interesting five or six years ago, the outcome would likely remain the same.
Even if Helenius catches Wilder by surprise in the early rounds, he’ll need to be on high alert for 12 full rounds unless he manages to knock him out early.
That, we don’t see happening. There will come a point when Wilder shakes off the rust and finds a home for his rangy jab. Once he gets a read on Helenius’ movement, he’ll send the right hand behind that jab and close out the show.
We’re betting on the inevitable in more ways than one.
Prediction: Deontay Wilder moneyline (-800 at DraftKings)
Best Bet: Wilder in Round 4-6 (+190)
Unless Helenius can somehow turn the clock back a decade, he’s basically on borrowed time if he lasts through the first four rounds. With Wilder not expending much energy and remaining explosive, he’ll eventually trap Helenius with a KO blast that’ll put him down and out.
Giving Wilder time to warm up the engine might cause a delay. Our best bet is that Wilder connects with the kill shot after four rounds of even action, and we’ll take a group round pick between rounds 4-6 at +190.
Prediction: Deontay Wilder to win in Round 4-6 (+190 at DraftKings)
