In a stunning revelation that has rocked the British boxing scene, Nigel Benn has announced he is stepping away from his son Conor Benn's training camps to return to his family in Australia.
A Father's Farewell
The bombshell news came shortly after Conor Benn's impressive points victory over Chris Eubank Jr on Saturday night, a rematch that avenged his defeat from their first encounter in April. Nigel Benn confirmed this was his final training camp with his son, stating he needs to dedicate his time to his wife and three children who are based in Australia.
"I don't know if Conor knows but this is my last training camp," Benn Sr revealed. "I won't be coming over no more. I've been coming over and spending six to eight months of the year here but I can't do it anymore."
The former world champion explained his decision stems from wanting to support his younger son Levi's ambitions to become a professional footballer, while acknowledging he's spent the last decade helping Conor reach his current position. Nigel Benn emphasised that Conor is now in "good hands" with an "unbelievable team" and his own wife to support him.
Overcoming Adversity
The victory over Eubank Jr sets Conor Benn up for a potential world title shot next year, marking an incredible comeback from the dark period following two failed drug tests in 2022. The initial scheduled fight between Benn and Eubank Jr was cancelled due to the controversy, leading to a lengthy battle to clear his name.
Benn himself opened up about the emotional toll of the past two years, admitting: "I feel like I'm going to go home and cry. A calm Conor is a better Conor." He described being "fuelled by fear of losing" and the difficulty of facing his first professional defeat before this redemption victory.
Promoter Eddie Hearn highlighted the significance of Benn's journey, noting: "People don't understand. Conor left Australia to pursue his boxing career. He gave up everything to live the dream. He's a great example to people who might not see a way back."
Looking to the Future
With his father's departure from the training team, Conor Benn now faces preparing for the biggest fight of his career without the daily presence of the man who has guided him for ten years. The boxer acknowledged the support system that helped him through his "dark times," crediting them with providing wisdom and strength when he needed it most.
As Benn looks toward a potential world title opportunity in 2026, the boxing world watches to see how the fighter will adapt to this significant change in his training environment while building on the momentum from his career-reviving victory.
