Boxing fans are witnessing a future superstar’s potential fall from grace, as Conor Benn now must work to clear his name from a banned substance found in his system.
Although all judgement should be reserved until we hear the full story, fans and even some fighters have made their minds up – a fact that isn’t helped by no real information offered other than an ‘adverse finding.’
In the wake of the news and his fight with Chris Eubank Jr being sensationally pulled at the last minute, Benn’s long-time trainer, Tony Simms, has released a statement via Instagram.
“After 26 years in boxing, a sport love and have dedicated my life to, I can say hand on heart that I have never experienced or witnessed any athlete in my camp fail an anti doping test, voluntary or mandatory and I stand proud by that fact. Today leaves me truly devastated as we call a postponement to such an amazing event that I was honoured to say I was a part of.
I have worked closely with Conor Benn for the last 7 years, developing and mentoring him as a fighter in the ring and a man outside of it. In particular we have completed this recent 12 week camp alongside Nigel, his father who has lived with Conor day to day, beginning to end.
Having spoken to Conor personally in length surrounding the subject and listening to him, I support him as a coach and a friend. We are determined to get to the bottom of this as a team, working closely with Conor’s legal advisors in an effort to understand the meaning of the “adverse finding” and resolve this matter urgently.
Thank you for your continued support.”
The promoters of the fight were keen to highlight that it was postponed rather than cancelled, although it’s hard to see fans buying into such an event until they are provided more clarity on the drug test and what really went on.