Conor Benn says he has been cleared of any wrongdoing by the National Anti-Doping Committee and can now frame what appears to be the end of the saga that began with his failed drug tests in 2022.
Just days before his scheduled fight with Chris Eubank Jr in October 2022, it was revealed that Benn had failed two tests as the fight approached, forcing its cancellation. Additionally, Benn’s license was suspended by the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC).
In February 2023, the World Boxing Council authorized intentional doping at welterweight, before the National Anti-Doping Committee lifted its suspension in July. However, the BBBofC and UK Anti-Doping (Ukad) appeals this decision.
But Benn, 28, has now released a statement saying a decision was on his side and he was now free to box, having last fought in the UK. back in April 2022.
Benn said in a statement: “I am grateful that after two incredibly difficult years, the National Anti-Doping Panel has finally cleared me of any wrongdoing. These last 24 months have without a doubt been the hardest struggle of my life. A rollercoaster period in which the WBC had already decided that I was innocent and the NADP had decided in the first instance that there was no case to answer and I was free to fight.
“As a boxing enthusiast and advocate for clean sport, I hope that now that I have been cleared, it can be understood why I have so steadfastly maintained my innocence throughout. As a man of God I have no ill will towards UKAD or the British Boxing Board of Control, we have a shared ambition for a clean sport and I look forward to reconciling with the Board and move forward together.
“I would like to thank my fans who have supported me, your support has never and will never go unnoticed, and of course my friends and family, who have all displayed unwavering faith in me. It is only thanks to the strength of all this support that I managed to get through this I would also like to thank Matchroom and Everlast for their unwavering support which allowed me to see the process through to its conclusion.
“I remained disciplined and focused despite the challenges faced, which is a testament to my desire to be great. I’m relieved to finally be able to close this chapter and can’t wait to get back in the ring to realize my ultimate potential! Who wants it next!?
Benn’s promoter Eddie Hearn shared the post before adding: “After two horrible years and a sold out hearing, so happy that Conor has finally been cleared of any wrongdoing by the NADP. Get ready for one hell of a comeback! »
Benn earned licenses to compete in Florida last year and in Las Vegas in February, beating Rodolfo Orozco SO Peter Dobson in these fights. Benn won both contests deciding to go undefeated.
He has remained linked with Eubank Jr for the past two years and most recently faced his compatriot in October. Benn entered the ring to exchange words with Eubank Jr in Saudi Arabia, after the latter arrested Kamil Szeremeta.
