Conor Benn says he’ll go out and do a job despite widespread condemnation at the fact the Briton is fighting with a ban hanging over him.
The welterweight could still face a spell out of the ring as the British Boxing Board of Control contests the lifting of a temporary suspension by the National Anti-Doping Panel.
If successful, the BBBofC will ensure Benn is not eligible to fight in the UK for a considerable period. Other bodies, like the Texas one he procured a license from for Saturday night, will be forced to take note.
But right now, Benn and his promoter, Eddie Hearn, consider the boxer cleared due to the technicality of an appeal. Therefore, Benn will face Rodolfo Orozco in Florida.
However, the consensus is Benn should not be in the ring until the whole saga is ended.
Conor Benn feels no pressure
“There’s no pressure. I’m just going to go in there and do what I do, do what I love to do and what I was born to do,” said Benn.
“Saturday night has been a long time coming. I’ve had to jump through so many hurdles; this last year has been the hardest fight of my life.
“So, what can he do to me? I’m just going to go out there and do what I do. If I see an opening, I will take it. He’s got to know that if I see an opening, I will take it. I say that twice because when I say it, I mean it.
“He’s my world title fight. That’s how I treat every fighter. Irrespective of people saying this should be a warm-up or a stepping-stone, I treat every fight like it’s for a world title.
“I’ll be happy to get the rounds in, of course. I know it’s worth its weight in gold. But as I said before, I will take it if I see an opening.
“I’m a sharp-shooter, I don’t miss. I’m accurate with my shots. I carry the power; I have the speed. Whatever he wants to do, I assure you, there will be a response.
“I can assure you now, there will be a counter. He best think three steps in advance.
Ready to fight
“There’s a lot of everything that will come out on Saturday night: frustration, aggression, speed, power. It’s all going to come out. There’s no pressure. If anything, I’m just excited.
“It’s just pure excitement to get in there and do what I know to do. I was born to fight. This is what I do. It’s in my DNA. My DNA is strong, it’s proven.
“I was put on this planet to fight. On Saturday night, he will soon find out because he said he doesn’t know my name – but after Saturday night, he will know my name.
“I am undefeated in the ring and spirit. A return on Saturday is a step closer to redemption.
“After that, I’m putting the 147-160 divisions on notice. You are looking at a determined man who desires to beat them all.”
Hearn added: “Conor Benn is back. I’m looking forward to seeing him pick up where he left off. He’s ready to go straight in for a big fight now.
“But his trainer, Tony Sims, will be pleased to get him back sooner against a game opponent in Rodolfo Orozco.
“Conor is looking unbelievable in the gym. I cannot wait to see him back in the ring where he belongs on a fantastic fight card in Florida.”
