British welterweight boxer Conor Benn has been cleared to return to the ring after UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) and the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) withdrew their appeals regarding his doping case. The decision marks the end of a lengthy legal battle that had kept the 27-year-old fighter sidelined for over a year.
Benn tested positive for the banned substance clomifene in two separate tests conducted by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) in 2022. The findings led to the cancellation of his high-profile bout against Chris Eubank Jr. and triggered investigations by UKAD and the BBBofC.
However, in a surprising turn of events, both organizations have now dropped their appeals against the National Anti-Doping Panel's earlier ruling in Benn's favour. This clears the path for the undefeated boxer to resume his professional career.
"I'm relieved this ordeal is finally over," Benn said in a statement. "I've maintained my innocence throughout this process, and I'm grateful to my team and fans who stood by me."
The resolution comes after Benn's legal team successfully argued that the positive tests resulted from accidental contamination rather than intentional doping. While the details of the settlement remain confidential, the decision effectively reinstates Benn's boxing license.
Experts suggest this case highlights ongoing challenges in anti-doping enforcement, particularly regarding trace contamination cases. The boxing world now awaits Benn's return to the ring, with potential matchups against top welterweights already being discussed.
