Conor Benn is now under investigation by UK Anti-Doping following his failed drugs test in the lead up to his doomed fight with Chris Eubank Jr.
Benn tested positive for the banned substance clomiphene, a fertility drug which elevates testosterone levels, in September which ultimately saw last weekend's fight called off. The 26-year-old maintains he is a clean athlete and, on Wednesday, posted on Instagram: “I hope the apology is as loud as the disrespect”.
But the British Boxing Board of Control has now confirmed UKAD, who did not carry out the failed test, have launched an investigation which could see Benn banned for four years if found guilty of wrongdoing. A statement from the Board read: "Following the British Boxing Board of Control Limited's decision on October 4, 2022 to prohibit the contest between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn that was scheduled to take place on October 8, 2022, the Board is aware that it has been widely reported in the press that an 'A' sample provided by Mr. Benn to the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association tested positive for a prohibited substance.
"UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) has launched an investigation in relation to Mr. Benn and the Board is in communication with UKAD in relation to that investigation. The Board will release further details in relation to this matter, as and when appropriate."
Benn and Eubank Jr initially remained confident last Saturday’s fight would go ahead but co-promoters Matchroom announced two days before the first bell that the clash was off after the Board said it was "prohibited and not in the interests of boxing".
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Members of Benn's family and his training team have leapt to his defence with his dad Nigel saying: “Hi guys, as you know we’re in total shock. I’ve been with my son for the last 10 weeks and the training has just gone absolutely the best it could ever be.
"He’s a dedicated trainer. He leaves no stone unturned and we’ll get to the bottom of this. I love my son. I know he don’t cut no corners, he just goes straight at it 100 per cent. But we’ll keep you informed. We’ll let you know what the next step is. But you know, he’s a faithful trainer and he’s a clean athlete. Speak to you soon. God Bless."
