CONOR BENN faces a four-year ban after British anti-doping chiefs asked for evidence of his failed drugs test.
SunSport understands UK Anti-Doping will launch a formal probe after traces of banned fertility drug clomifene – which boosts testosterone – were found in Benn’s A sample.
His failed drugs test – conducted by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency – led to the postponement of tonight’s grudge £25million catchweight fight with Chris Eubank Jr at the O2.
Now UKAD will write to VADA to request the analysis of the 26-year-old’s adverse finding.
Only UKAD have the authority to issue a doping ban, but it is understood VADA – whose testing services typically cost around £30,000 – are prepared to hand over the necessary documentation.
The bombshell news comes after Benn’s promoter Eddie Hearn threatened legal action against British boxing chiefs after they refused to sanction the fight.
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Conor’s legendary father Nigel Benn Sr, 58, leapt to his son’s defence on Friday after his boy had already vowed to clear his name.
He took to social media and said: “Hi guys, as you know we’re in total shock.
“I’ve been with my son for the last ten weeks and the training has absolutely gone the best it could have been.
“He’s a dedicated trainer, he leaves no stone unturned and we’ll get to the bottom of this, I love my son.
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“I know he don’t cut no corners, he just goes straight at it 100 per cent but we’ll keep you informed, we’ll let you know what the next step is.
“But he’s a faithful trainer and a clean athlete, speak to you all soon, God bless.”
Meanwhile, Benn’s “devastated” coach Tony Sims says he’ll keep supporting the boxer.
Sims said: “Having spoken to Conor personally in length surrounding the subject and listening to him, I support him as a coach and as a friend.
“We are determined to get to the bottom of this as a team, working closely with Conor’s legal advisors in an effort to understand the meaning of the ‘adverse finding’ and resolve this matter urgently.”
Sims’ added: “After 26 years in boxing, a sport I love and have dedicated my life to, I can say hand on heart that I have never experienced or witnessed any athlete in my camp fail an anti doping test, voluntary or mandatory and I stand by that fact.”
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
