Conor Benn has promised big fights in 2023 despite the cloud of two failed doping tests still lingering over him.
The undefeated welterweight is awaiting word from the WBC that he will be reinstated to their rankings, and it’s believed then that he will make a ring return.
Despite being inactive since his second round knockout over Chris Van Heerden in May of 2022, ‘The Destroyer’ is looking to come back with a bang, and it seems that he’s targetting the only eight division world champion the sport has ever seen – Manny Pacquiao.
Benn’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, revealed that there had been ‘minor discussions’ with ‘PacMan’ to Boxing King Media.
“Maybe I’m click baiting, maybe watch this space. I would not be surprised to see Conor Benn fight Manny Pacquiao next. But it’s not signed. There’s been a couple of discussions – minor discussions – but obviously the key for us is to work on the WBC ruling.”
Despite being currently retired, the former champion has talked of a ring return and has made it clear in the past that he wants to fight in the UK before hanging up the gloves for good. He was last out in August 2021 – a decision loss to Yordenis Ugás.
When pushed by Boxing Social on other options for Benn’s return, Hearn listed off some big names.
“Eubank, Pacquiao, Ortiz, Boots Ennis, Terence Crawford – he wants a massive fight next.”
First up is the WBC ruling and getting licensed by a board. That’s unlikely to be the British Board of Control considering they have an active investigation into Benn that seems to be stalling.
