Conor Benn will reportedly return to the ring to face Rodolfo Orozco in Orlando, Florida, on September 23rd, 2023.
The bout will be Benn’s first fight in over a year since he failed two VADA tests for Clomiphene. The boxer had been on course to face Chris Eubank Jr, only for the fight to be pulled after the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) refused to sanction it. Thereafter, Benn protested his innocence only for UKAD to suspend him in April. Although that suspension has been removed by the National Anti-Doping Panel, UKAD and the BBBofC have appealed that decision. Therefore, even though Benn is technically allowed to box, he must undergo a hearing. But in the meantime, it appears that Benn will fight regardless.
🥊 ANNOUNCED: Conor Benn will face Rodolfo Orozco on the Richardson Hitchins vs Jose Zepeda undercard on Saturday night in Florida. Appeal in his UKAD case over his two positive drugs tests from last year remains ongoing.
— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) September 20, 2023
Reaction
“I am undefeated in the ring, and in spirit. A return on Saturday is a step closer to redemption. 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
“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,” Eddie Hearn
Despite those comments, there are still question marks over the nature of Benn’s defense. Was there the absence of Clomiphene in his system or a case of contamination? And until those issues were addressed, boxing fans had plenty to say.
Social Media Response
A dark day for boxing.
— Beater Beev (@SportingCons) September 20, 2023
i can’t lie i like Conor Benn but a fighter fighting without being cleared or given a ban is really bad for boxing
really bad
— ROBOT BOXING (@ROBOTBOXINGYT) September 20, 2023
Joke of a sport
— Dyl (@dylzyy1) September 20, 2023