Conor Benn faced a barrage of questions from an anti-doping advocate, leading to promoter Eddie Hearn defending the returning welterweight.
Victor Conte, a controversial but reformed figure in the world of performance enhancing drugs, made his feelings clear on Benn’s comeback.
“The Destroyer” fought in Florida on Saturday night a year after failing two drug tests for clomiphene. Despite claims he’s been cleared to fight, the British Boxing Board of Control rejected that notion before the first bell.
Conte has since added his views to the ongoing calls for Benn to put his career on hold until his case concludes.
The former BALCO boss, who spent time in prison before turning to exposing potential PEDs in boxing, called out Benn in startling claims.
Benn says, “You are looking at a determined man.” The more important [thing] is, will Benn be a clean fighter? Has he been routinely drug tested or NOT??
“In my opinion, Conor Benn saying “evidence proves clomiphene came from food in my case” is nonsense,” said Conte. “One small pilot study abstract does not provide “scientific proof.”
“A full study data must be published in credible “peer-reviewed” journals.”
He added: “What Conor Benn may fail to realize is other possible sources of clomiphene exposure have not been studied.
“Such as underground labs making testosterone contaminated with traces of clomiphene. Microdosing with testosterone must also be considered as a source.
“Eddie Hearn knows Benn’s “scientific evidence” was rejected by both UK Anti-Doping, the British Boxing Board of Control and Vada Testing.”
Hearn fired back at Conte in what seemed to be a potential threat of action against him.
“Another lie by you! Stand by,” stated Hearn.
Conte responded to the Matchroom boss: “I do my best to be a truth speaker and advocate for clean boxing.”
Previously, Conte has questioned the World Boxing Council’s belief that Benn tested positive for the drug due to overconsumption of eggs.
He cited the case of Canelo Alvarez, who faced a six-month ban for clenbuterol despite providing evidence of the food he suspected of being the culprit.
“If chicken eggs are suspected of clomiphene exposure, then Connor Benn must identify the brand to be tested by a WADA lab.
“Canelo provided receipts from a restaurant and then traced the meat to a slaughterhouse where 30% of meat was found contaminated with clenbuterol,” revealed Conte.
Benn can fight under alternative jurisdiction despite the BBBofC not permitting him to fight in the UK. Seeking out alternative licensing through Texas meant Benn could battle in Florida.
However, BBBofC secretary Robert Smith insisted Benn is not cleared to fight and shouldn’t be competing, in his valued opinion.
The entire situation remains questionable, not only by Conte but by many in the sport. This means a swift conclusion is necessary before Benn attempts to fight again.
Phil Jay is an experienced boxing news writer. Follow WBN: Facebook, Insta, Threads.
