Robert Helenius Facing Shoulder Surgery, Long Layoff

Robert Helenius, who currently holds the European heavyweight title, will undergo shoulder surgery and be out of the ring for at least six months, with some worry (however mild) that his career could be in jeopardy.

From Helsingin Sanomat:

The shoulder problem revealed itself already six weeks before the controversial December title bout against Britain’s Dereck Chisora.

Helenius’s father Karl considers the fact that his son was allowed to box against Chisora was "a major cockup".

According to Karl Helenius, coach Ulli Wegner from the German Sauerland team, in which his son boxes, wanted Robert Helenius to train and fight against Chisora, even though the shoulder injury had already manifested itself.

Helenius was given a gift decision win over Chisora in December, and really didn't look himself in that fight. I don't think it's an excuse this time; this is a reason.

Helenius (17-0, 11 KO) will likely wind up stripped of the European title if he's out as long as expected, and the fighter understands that and isn't planning any sort of protest. His greatest concern is getting his shoulder fixed and coming back from that.

The surgery will be performed on Thursday.