CONOR BENN will make a shock return to the ring in Orlando THIS WEEKEND – despite not being cleared to fight in the UK.
The surging welterweight contender’s career was brought to a screeching halt last October when it was revealed he failed a pair of drug tests ahead of his cancelled clash with Chris Eubank Jr.
Benn, 26, isn’t currently licensed to compete in the UK due to the ongoing and controversial doping saga.
But that hasn’t stopped him and his team from pursuing a fight – which will take place in Orlando, Florida this Saturday.
The Destroyer will lock horns with Mexico’s Rodolfo Orozco on the undercard of Richardson Hitchins’ super-lightweight clash with Jose Zepeda.
A delighted Benn said: “I am undefeated in the ring, and in spirit. A return on Saturday is a step closer to redemption.
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“After that, I’m putting the 147-160 divisions on notice.
“You are looking at a determined man with a deep desire to beat them all.”
Benn is currently licensed by the Florida Athletic Commission, so he won’t be violating any rules by competing.
Promoter Eddie Hearn is delighted to have him back in action – despite the uncertainty over his ability to box in the UK.
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The Matchroom Boxing chief said: “Conor Benn is back and I’m looking forward to seeing him pick up where he left off.
“He’s ready to go straight in for a big fight now but his trainer Tony Sims will be pleased to get him back sooner against a game opponent in Rodolfo Orozco.
“Conor is looking unbelievable in the gym and I cannot wait to see him back in the ring where he belongs on what is a fantastic fight card in Florida.”
The undefeated Benn’s career was left in tatters after he tested positive for the banned fertility drug clomiphene – which can elevate testosterone levels in men – before his cancelled clash with Eubank Jr.
The son of British boxing great Nigel protested his innocence from the get-go and was cleared by the National Anti-Doping Panel in July.
UKAD and the British Boxing Board of Control, however, have appealed the decision.
The date for the outcome of the appeal is currently unknown.
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
