Conor Benn cleared of doping violations after 'toughest fight of my life'

Conor Benn, aged 28, expressed his enthusiasm on Wednesday to return to boxing in Britain following the National Anti-Doping Panel's (NADP) decision to exonerate him from any misconduct related to two positive drug tests in 2022.

Benn had tested positive on two occasions for clomifene, a fertility medication that increases testosterone levels in men.

These results resulted in the cancellation of his anticipated match against British competitor Chris Eubank Jr, which was scheduled to take place at London's O2 Arena on October 8, 2022.

The British Boxing Board of Control revoked Benn's license, and although the NADP lifted his provisional suspension in July 2023, it was later reinstated after a successful appeal by the Board and the UK Anti-Doping Agency (UKAD).

However, the NADP has now overturned that ruling, stating it was "not comfortably satisfied" that UKAD had sufficiently demonstrated that Benn had engaged in doping.

In response to this recent development, Benn took to social media to share his thoughts.

"I am grateful that after an incredibly challenging two years, the National Anti-Doping Panel has finally cleared me of any wrongdoing," Benn stated, noting that he has fought twice in the United States since the lifting of his provisional ban.

"The past 24 months have undoubtedly been the most difficult fight of my life. As someone deeply passionate about boxing and a proponent of clean sport, I hope that my exoneration will clarify why I have consistently asserted my innocence."

UKAD announced that it would "carefully review" the NADP's ruling before determining whether to pursue an additional appeal.

The proposed bout in 2022 was meant to continue the historic rivalry between Benn and Eubank, which began with their fathers, Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank Sr, who faced each other in two intense matches during the early 1990s.

SportsLigue