The British Boxing Board of Control commented on the situation regarding Conor Benn to warn the welterweight he’s not home and dry just yet.
As with the UK Anti-Doping Agency, both entities are considering appealing a decision by the National Anti-Doping Panel to allow Benn to fight.
Benn was provisionally suspended from competing in the United Kingdom. This is regarding two separate drug test fails for the same substance – clomifene.
The adverse findings came back from tests taken in July and September. The ban was lifted almost exactly one year from the first failure on July 25.
Since then, Benn has released a statement confirming his desire to return to the ring as soon as possible. His promoter Eddie Hearn has already thrown out dates of September and December for Benn’s next two bouts.
British Boxing Board considering Conor Benn appeal
However, it may not be that simple for Benn. “The Destroyer” still has both the BBBofC and UKAD mulling appeals that could stop any attempts for a return.
On the back of UKAD releasing information on its official website, the BBBofC added its weight to the article in question before confirming possible intentions to contest the Doping Panel’s decision.
“The British Boxing Board of Control (‘BBBofC’) is aware that Mr. Benn and UK Anti-Doping [UKAD] have provided public comment in relation to confidential proceedings before the independent National Anti-Doping Panel.
“The BBBofC is not able to comment on the proceedings between UKAD and Mr. Benn due to confidentiality restrictions. Furthermore, we refer to the statement issued by UK Anti-Doping [found in Statement from UK Anti-Doping on Conor Benn’s VADA test].
“As set out therein, we wish to reconfirm that the UK Anti-Doping Rules (“Rules”) which apply to those proceedings provide all relevant parties, including the BBBofC, with a right of appeal.
“Extremely serious”
“The BBBofC takes all anti-doping matters extremely seriously. The BBBofC is considering the exercise of its rights pursuant to the Rules.
“Further comment will not be provided pending the conclusion of the UKAD process in full due to the confidentiality restrictions in place.
“All inquiries should be directed to UKAD, as the body responsible for the enforcement of the Rules.”
It seems the Board and UKAD may not be done with the Benn matter after almost a year of back and forth between the parties involved.
Benn firmly believes he will be fully exonerated of wrongdoing. In addition, he has already told his fans he’s been ‘vindicated’ twice over the failures.
But judging by the BBBofC and UKAD retorts, the undefeated fighter may not be off the hook entirely. Appeals remain pending.
Phil Jay is an experienced boxing news writer.
