After a turbulent couple of years marred by controversy, Conor Benn has announced on social media that he has been cleared by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADAP) regarding his positive test for a forbidden substance. With the green light to resume his boxing career, the 28-year-old welterweight, holding an impressive record of 23 wins and 14 knockouts, is eager to make his mark in the ring once again. His return has sparked the interest of fans, as Benn has already vocalized his desire to face prominent fighters in the sport, including Gervonta Davis, Devin Haney, and Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis. However, the most likely candidate for his next bout appears to be Chris Eubank Jr., a matchup long anticipated by boxing aficionados.
A clash between Benn and Eubank Jr. is particularly intriguing given their storied familial legacies; both are sons of renowned British boxers and have built sizable careers without consistently facing top-tier talents. The likelihood of this fight occurring in Riyadh has fueled speculation about its profitability, but it raises questions about whether the public’s interest can rekindle after two years of stagnant relevancy. While both fighters stand to gain financially from such an encounter, Benn’s history suggests the potential for a mismatch, particularly if he faces the 35-year-old Eubank Jr., whose prime has passed but still possesses significant experience.
Benn’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, faces a challenging decision. If he chooses to pit Benn against a higher-caliber opponent, there’s a strong possibility that a loss could further sour Benn’s already shaky reputation, particularly in the United States, where he has yet to make a substantial impact. A matchup with Eubank may provide the illusion of an easier fight, yet even that comes with risks, given Benn’s recent performances.
The last time Benn entered the ring, the situation appeared far different. Just two years ago, he looked poised for greatness, with striking knockouts against opposition that, while not world-class, showcased his potential prowess. Unfortunately, after being sidelined by a suspension, Benn seems to have lost some of that momentum and explosiveness. In recent bouts against Rodolfo Orozco and Peter Dobson, he struggled to dominate, going the distance and raising doubts regarding his effectiveness and power.
This shift invites skepticism about his readiness for more formidable foes. With questions surrounding his physical capabilities after the long layoff, boxing analysts and fans alike are left wondering if Benn can reclaim his previous form. Will he once again become a knockout artist, or will he be relegated to a mere shadow of his former self?
Benn’s future in boxing hangs in the balance. The potential fight against Eubank Jr. could be a stepping stone for a resurgence or a pitfall that solidifies his decline. As he embarks on this next chapter, both Benn and Hearn must tread cautiously. With high stakes and mounting pressure, time will tell if Conor Benn can rise from the ashes of his former self to reclaim his place in the boxing world.