Last year, famed boxer Conor Benn tested positive for a banned drug. Though Benn made a comeback this year, it wasn’t on his home soil in the UK. Because the UKAD case is still ongoing, Benn had to stage his comeback in the United States. Benn secured a hard-fought victory in his comeback fight, emerging victorious by unanimous decision against Rodolfo Orozco. 

Benn’s journey back to the ring was anything but smooth, as it unfolded against the backdrop of an ongoing appeal in his UKAD (UK Anti-Doping) case. The specter of this appeal loomed large, casting a shadow of uncertainty over his return to the sport. Fans and spectators expressed displeasure regarding his return to boxing due to his positive tests, but Benn made a comeback with the assistance of Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn.

And it seems like it isn’t just fans and pundits that are feeling at odds over the event, one voice of reason rang through, and that is the female boxer, Claressa Shields.

Claressa Shields on Conor Benn’s Triumphant Return

The British Boxing Board of Control and UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) jointly initiated an appeal challenging the independent National Anti-Doping Panel’s ruling that lifted Benn’s provisional suspension from boxing. Nevertheless, he made a successful comeback to his career, securing a unanimous decision victory  in Orlando.

Orozco’s 38-fight career before the Benn fight, with 32 wins, had never seen him get stopped before. Despite Benn, who moved up to nearly 154lbs, delivering powerful punches, the Mexican remained resolute, withstanding the onslaught. The undefeated 26-year-old unleashed a barrage of aggressive combinations but couldn’t deliver the decisive blow to overcome Orozco’s tenacious defense.

Similarly, Claressa observed that Conor’s performance had some flaws, despite being better than his opponent. “Benn is better fighter, but plays the ropes too much,” Shields tweeted.

 Claressa Shields has been active on social media lately, delving into various topics and commenting on the happenings of the boxing world.

While the UKAD is still investigating Benn of the drug allegations, the comeback fight took on added significance. The adversity he faced was not only in the form of his opponent, Rodolfo Orozco but also the weight of public opinion and the ongoing legal proceedings.

Read More: “Even Strong Men Break”: Moments After Announcing His Return, Conor Benn Makes Brutal Confession About Hardships After Doping Test Fiasco

Benn’s hiatus didn’t impact his skills; he defended his undefeated record with resolve. Despite allegations, his determination shone and made a successful comeback.

Will Chris Eubank Jr. vs Conor Benn happen? Eddie Hearn thinks so…

Eddie Hearn, the boxing promoter has been open about his support for the British Boxer, Hearn subsequently communicated with Boxing News on Thursday, highlighting a distinction between Smith’s reference to “clearing his name” and the actual clearance for Benn to resume his fighting career.

“I understand people’s frustration, but we are doing everything by the book. He’s cleared to fight, everyone’s happy for him to fight, he’ll continue to fight until he’s not cleared to fight – which I believe will not happen. His suspension was lifted. No ban. Cleared to box. But no one wants to actually consider that information.”

Eddie Hearn has even promised to make true a fight between Chris Eubank Jr. and Benn. Commenting on the possibility of the matchup, he stated, “We are ready to make that fight. You know, we’ll speak to the board next week. We have offers internationally. We are ready to make the fight.”

In the world of sports, narratives like Benn’s comeback story are not uncommon. Athletes often face challenges, both personal and professional, that can test their resilience and character. Conor Benn’s victory over Rodolfo Orozco serves as a testament to his ability to persevere in the face of adversity, as he navigates the complexities of his ongoing UKAD case while striving to continue his ascent in the highly competitive welterweight division.

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