Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has provided an update on the ongoing situation between Conor Benn, UKAD and the BBBoC, following recent news that appears to have stunted Benn’s return to fighting in the United Kingdom.
Benn famously tested positive for clomiphene ahead of his grudge match with Chris Eubank Jr, leading to the cancellation of their proposed contest in October 2022, tainting the name of ‘The Destroyer’ and causing an 11-month spell of inactivity.
The 27-year-old has since returned to action across the pond in two bouts during the last six months, outpointing both Rodolfo Orozco and Peter Dobson respectively, before an expected comeback on British shores.
However, UKAD and the BBBoC have now successfully appealed the National Anti-Doping Panel’s decision to lift Benn’s suspension, leaving him in no-mans-land.
Speaking to iFL TV, Hearn explained that a clarifying statement is imminent from all involved parties, but for now there is little that can be said about the case.
“It’s not at my request, it is bound by confidentiality. That is why you have seen no comment from Conor Benn, no comment from the British Boxing Board of Control, no comment from UKAD and I guess that together they will make a statement at some point, until then I can’t really say anything. I haven’t really got anything to say, that is it.
“Does it hinder [Conor Benn’s next fight]? Obviously, there was nothing set, there’s a lot of conversations ongoing and when the time is appropriate there will be news and a statement, until then I can’t really tell you anything.
It’s [the case has] been [ongoing for] nearly two years, we are about a month away from two years, so it is extremely frustrating.”
Conor Benn has recently been linked to a showdown with the legendary Manny Pacquiao, which could’ve brought the Filipino to fight in the United Kingdom for the first time, although any potential match-up now seems destined for Saudi Arabia.