- Benn returns against Orozco
- Hearn reveals undefeated Benn is targeting top opponents
- Orozco confident of causing an upset
Conor Benn is set to make his return to the ring on September 23rd in Florida after a provisional doping suspension. The 26-year-old British boxer hasn’t competed since April 2022, when he faced setbacks after failing two voluntary drug tests later that year.
Benn returns against Orozco
Benn’s opponent for the comeback match will be Rodolfo Orozco, a super-welterweight contender, in an event organised by Matchroom Boxing in Orlando. Expressing his determination, Benn stated, “I am undefeated in the ring, and in spirit. A return on Saturday is a step closer to redemption.”
He further asserted, “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.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn also expressed his anticipation, saying, “Conor Benn is back and I’m looking forward to seeing him pick up where he left off.” Hearn revealed that Benn is eager to take on a significant opponent in his next fight.
Benn maintains innocence
Benn’s doping controversy arose from two failed Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (Vada) tests leading up to his match against Chris Eubank Jr. in October of the previous year. The tests revealed traces of the female fertility drug clomifene. Benn maintains his innocence, asserting that he never intentionally doped.
In March, UK Anti-Doping (Ukad) provisionally suspended Benn, but in July, the National Anti-Doping Panel lifted the suspension following a hearing. Both Ukad and the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) are currently appealing this decision, and as of now, Benn does not possess a boxing licence in the UK.
The anticipated clash between Benn and Chris Eubank Jr., scheduled for October 2022 to commemorate the 30-year anniversary of their fathers Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank Sr.’s legendary encounter, remains a significant point of interest.
Undefeated in 21 fights, Benn is gearing up to face Orozco on the undercard of Richardson Hitchins’ light-welterweight bout against Jose Zepeda.
Orozco confidently stated, “This isn’t short notice for me because I’ve been preparing for this moment my entire life. You’ve made a mistake Conor, and I’ll show you that this Saturday.”
In addition to Benn’s return, the event will feature British boxer Sandy Ryan vying for the unified World Welterweight championship against American Jessica McCaskill, promising an action-packed evening for boxing enthusiasts.
Betting Implications
Benn is undefeated as a professional, winning all 21 of his bouts, and in May 2022 he was considered to be one of the world’s best active welterweights. He is a strong favourite to win his comeback bout, BoyleSports, at the time of writing, have him at 1/33 to defeat Orozco, with the Mexican priced at 25/1 with a draw at 11/1. 14 of Benn’s 21 victories have come via knockout so this could be an angle for punters looking for extra value.
Bettors need to monitor how Benn performs in his comeback fight in order to weight up his chances against future opponents.
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