Unbeaten welterweight Conor Benn has been “provisionally suspended” by United Kingdom Anti-Doping (UKAD) following a successful appeal by UKAD and the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBoC). The appeal overturned Benn’s clearance to return to competition after two failed VADA anti-doping tests in 2022.
Benn (23-0, 14 KOs) tested positive for clomifene twice while preparing to face Chris Eubank Jr. in an October pay-per-view contest at London’s O2 Arena in 2022. Revelations of Benn’s positive results for the banned substance surfaced during fight week, ultimately leading to cancellation of the fight.
Months later, Benn gained clearance from the independent National Anti-Doping Panel (NADP) to return to action, resuming his career in the United States against Rodolfo Orozco in Orlando, Florida, and winning a unanimous decision. Another UD win, against Peter Dobson, followed this past February in Las Vegas.
Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn had been targeting a lucrative stadium fight for Benn. Manny Pacquaio was the primary target after an in-person exchange in Saudi Arabia in March, ahead of Anthony Joshua’s second-round knockout victory over Francis Ngannou.
However, following successful appeals by UKAD and the BBBoC, Benn will now be subjected to the disciplinary and investigative process in accordance with U.K. Anti-Doping Rules.
“UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) can today confirm that as of 7 May 2024, Mr Benn is once again subject to a provisional suspension in accordance with the UK Anti-Doping Rules,” a statement from UKAD read, confirming its successful appeal of last July’s decision to clear Benn.
“Whilst provisionally suspended, Mr Benn is prohibited from participating in any capacity (or assisting another Athlete in any capacity) in a Competition, Event or activity that is organised, convened, authorised or recognised by the British Boxing Board of Control or any other World Anti-Doping Code-compliant sport.
“UKAD and the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBoC) were successful in their respective appeals of a decision handed down by a tribunal of the independent National Anti-Doping Panel in July 2023. Mr Benn’s provisional suspension was reimposed by the appeal tribunal following the successful appeals.
“Mr Benn’s case remains before the independent National Anti-Doping Panel and the case will now progress in accordance with the UK Anti-Doping Rules. UKAD is not able to make any further public disclosures at this time.”