Conor Benn Must Prove His Innocence To Fight In UK Again States Robert Smith
British Boxing Board Of Control General Secretary, Robert Smith, has said that Conor Benn will
not be allowed to box in the UK until he can prove his innocence in his two failed VADA anti-
doping tests. Benn (21-0) had tested positive for Clomifene on the 25th of July and September
1st which ultimately led to the cancellation of the highly anticipated event between Conor and
Chris Eubank Jr which was scheduled for October 8th.
No suspensions have been given to Benn at the time of publication and remain under
investigation by the World Boxing Council, The BBBofC and UKAD. Conor Benn also
relinquished his BBBofC licence on the 26th of October following the fall out of the failed tests
which rocked British boxing negatively.
Speaking to TalkSport, Smith explained that he feel’s Benn is a great talent and can prove his
innocence as he believes the sport does need Conor.
“To be honest with you, I hope he can prove he’s innocent,” Smith told talkBOXING. “Because
he’s great for the sport.
“Forget the name, forget his background, he’s a really good boxer and we need him. All the
sport needs him.
“He attracts people because of his background, I hope he can prove he’s [innocent].”
However, Smith continues and add’s that in his opinion Conor will be unable to box on UK soil
despite Benn’s promoter Eddie Hearn's suggestion that he could box on a foreign licence.
“He will not box on one of our shows in this country until he proves his innocence,” Smith added.
“To us and UKAD.
“UKAD acts on our behalf, so we take advice from UKAD. The difference between VADA and
UKAD is VADA does the tests but doesn’t do any discipline.
“UKAD does the disciplinary matters and we take it on board because, like every other sport in
the country, we’ve signed up with them.
“He will not box here in this country until he’s proved that there is an explanation. He was
licensed by us at the time, he has to explain the reason.”