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Conor Benn Cleared of Doping Violations, Moves Closer to Return

In a significant development for British boxing, Conor Benn has had his suspension lifted by the independent National Anti-Doping Panel (NADP), allowing the boxer to edge closer to resuming his professional career. This decision follows the lifting of a provisional suspension related to two failed drug tests that had previously derailed his fight plans.

Benn was initially subjected to a provisional suspension after testing positive for the banned substance clomifene, which resulted in the cancellation of his highly anticipated matchup with Chris Eubank Jr. in October 2022. After the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBoC) revoked his boxing license, the NADP first lifted the suspension in July 2023. However, the BBBoC and UK Anti-Doping Agency (UKAD) appealed this ruling, leading to the reinstatement of the suspension.

The NADP ultimately reversed this reinstatement, stating that it was “not comfortably satisfied” that UKAD had proven Benn’s drug violation. In a follow-up statement, Benn expressed his satisfaction with the panel’s decision and reaffirmed his commitment to clean sport.

A UKAD representative acknowledged the NADP’s ruling, noting, “UKAD can confirm that it received the decision of the independent National Anti-Doping Panel. The panel concluded that it was ‘not comfortably satisfied’ that UKAD had proved that Mr. Benn had committed an Anti-Doping Rule Violation for the use of clomifene. The provisional suspension previously in place has been lifted, and the charge against him has been consequently dismissed.”

As the boxing community awaits a response from the BBBoC about reinstating Benn’s license for future fights in Britain, the possibility remains that UKAD may appeal the NADP’s decision under existing anti-doping regulations.

Benn Eager for Comeback

Conor Benn, who has not fought since April 2022, expressed his eagerness to return to the ring, stating, “I am thankful that after an incredibly challenging two years, the National Anti-Doping Panel has finally cleared me of any wrongdoing.” He described the last couple of years as the toughest fight of his life and acknowledged the support he received from his fans and family during this turbulent period.

Benn emphasized his passion for boxing and commitment to a clean sport, stating, “I hope now that I have been cleared, it can be understood why I have maintained my innocence so strongly throughout.” He added that he bears no resentment toward UKAD or the BBBoC, expressing a desire to reconcile with them as he moves forward.

In a show of gratitude, he thanked Matchroom and Everlast for their unwavering support throughout this process, which has allowed him to see it through to a satisfactory conclusion. “I’m relieved to finally close this chapter and am excited to be back in the ring and realize my ultimate potential!” he concluded, displaying his enthusiasm for the future.

As fans speculate about his next steps, one question lingers: who will be his first opponent upon his return?

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