Conor Benn, the undefeated welterweight champion with a record of 23-0, is set to return to the ring after a lengthy and tumultuous two-year battle with UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) and the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC). The provisional suspension that hindered his career has been lifted following a ruling from the National Anti-Doping Panel (NADP), which concluded that there was insufficient evidence to prove that Benn had committed an anti-doping violation.
Benn expressed relief at the decision, stating that he has always advocated for clean sport. He described the past two years as the toughest fight of his life, emphasizing his belief in his innocence.
In 2022, Benn faced serious allegations after testing positive for clomifene, a banned fertility drug. The controversy stemmed from tests conducted by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA), which were financed by his promoters, Matchroom Boxing. This situation complicated his case, as UKAD was not involved in these specific tests.
UKAD announced that while they have dismissed charges against Benn, they are contemplating an appeal within 21 days. The body has yet to disclose the full reasoning behind their decision due to confidentiality rules. Meanwhile, the BBBofC has not commented on the matter but previously suspended Benn from boxing activities due to these allegations.
With his suspension lifted, Benn is eager to reschedule his highly anticipated bout against fellow fighter Chris Eubank Jr. Both teams are advocating for this match to take place in the UK rather than abroad in Saudi Arabia.
Promoter Eddie Hearn noted that this matchup is one of the easiest fights to promote, citing past successes and fan interest. He predicted that it could take place as early as February or March 2025.
Hearn highlighted that their previous bout generated significant interest, selling out venues quickly and setting attendance records.
Benn’s rivalry with Eubank Jr. dates back decades, with their fathers having fought in iconic matches during the 1990s. The younger Benn views this rematch as an opportunity not just for personal redemption but also as a pivotal moment in British boxing.
As Conor Benn prepares for his return to boxing, he aims to prove himself once again in front of fans and critics alike. With the potential rematch against Eubank Jr. looming on the horizon, both fighters have engaged in verbal exchanges recently, reigniting excitement among fans.
Benn’s journey underscores ongoing issues within sports regarding doping regulations and athlete rights. As he moves forward from this challenging chapter, many will be watching closely to see how he navigates this next phase of his career and whether he can reclaim his position among boxing’s elite.
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