In an unbelievable turn of events, it’s being reported that Conor Benn has returned an adverse finding of a banned substance in one of his drug tests. This weekend’s fight is now in jeopardy.
This morning, The Daily Mail are reporting that a test carried out by VADA (Voluntary Anti Doping Agency) highlighted traces of clomifene – a medication used to treat infertility in women who do not ovulate. Data also shows that the drug increases testosterone levels in men, and as such means it can be found on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s banned substances list. Should this be accurate, typical procedure usually calls for a B-sample or a fighter hearing where Benn may be given the chance to explain the test finding – although that depends on how much of the substance was recorded.
Benn is preparing to face Eubank Jr in a catchweight clash that reignites their fathers rivalry from the nineties. The weight of 157lb has been a major talking point, with Benn moving up divisions and Eubank Jr moving down. Whilst most eyes were to be on Eubank Jr at Friday’s weigh-in, plenty of fans were curious as to see how Benn’s work in the gym had helped him bulk up to handle the pressure of a bigger man.
This developing story throws Saturday night’s super fight into doubt – one which promoter Eddie Hearn had said had the potential to break records in terms or reach and pay-per-view buys. The sold-out event to be hosted at London’s O2 Arena was to be DAZN and Matchroom’s first box office event focused on the UK market.
As of the time of writing, there has been no official statement made on behalf of Benn or the promotion, although the Daily Mail are reporting that sources say his opponent may still want the fight to go ahead. It’s unclear how the governing body would feel about staging an event if this news is confirmed and more details are revealed.
UPDATE: The promoters have since released a statement with the fight still scheduled to go ahead.