The National Anti-Doping Agency has removed Conor Benn’s suspension, which took place following his failed VADA tests for Clomiphene.

Ben tested positive by VADA twice, and his fight with Chris Eubank Jr. was called off in 2022. Ben was adamant that he was innocent, as he sought to prove his case. UKAD suspended him, and an investigation took place. However, the National Anti-Doping Agency removed Ben’s suspension. This allowed him to box outside the UK since he did not have his British license. However, there were reports that the removal of the suspension was based on jurisdiction as to whether UKAD could enforce VADA findings.

During that time, Benn boxed in the United States, beating Rodolfo Orozco and Peter Dobson. However, the performances were not convincing since Benn looked far from the man who was knocking out his opponents. Benn was then suspended again by UKAD as the investigation continued. But now, a statement has been released by UKAD, stating that Benn’s suspension has been dismissed. UKAD has the right to appeal, as they have 21 days from this decision to decide. Meanwhile, Benn has put out a statement confirming the news.

Benn’s Suspension

“I am thankful that after an incredibly challenging 2 years the National Anti-Doping Panel has today finally cleared me of any wrongdoing. As someone who is passionate about boxing and an advocate for clean sport, I hope now I have been cleared it can be understood why I have maintained my innocence so strongly throughout,” Ennis said 

“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,” UKAD spokesperson

The Future

Nevertheless, some things still need to be considered moving forward. Ben still needs some time to secure his license from the British Boxing Board of Control before he is allowed to box in the UK again. If UKAD decides to appeal that decision, the process will be delayed further. But if Ben manages to overcome those obstacles, it means that a fight with Chris Eubank Jr. is a lot closer. It is still seen as the biggest domestic fight for both since it would generate a huge amount of money. The fight is even bigger now that Benn will have to deal with this controversy going into a press conference.

Eubank Jr. also has more leverage, given that he agreed to do a 157-pound catchweight for the initial fight. However, he boxes at 160 pounds, meaning he will more likely use Benn’s scandal to get more favorable terms. Ben is struggling to get another big fight against the other names since he brings nothing to the table. He has called out Devin Haney, Jaron Ennis and even Gervonta Davis. However, none of those fighters have indicated their desire to face him. Given that Benn has missed out on these lucrative fights, he wants to ensure he gets back into the ring as soon as possible.

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