Conor Benn’s Trainer Gives Big Update On Chris Eubank Jr Fight

Recently Conor Benn was acquitted and vindicated by UKAD for alleged substance abuse issues.

Not the case however and he is free to box again soon.

Speaking to Talk Sport today Conor Benn’s coach Tony Sims thinks the Eubank Jr fight is next up:

“He’s been through a lot—media scrutiny, challenges, you name it. I’m just pleased he’s got his license back and can fight again. He’s never been out of the gym, which is remarkable given how difficult it is to stay motivated and train intensely without a fight on the horizon. He’s kept himself in incredible shape. After his last fight in February in Vegas, it hasn’t been long, but he’s ready to return to the ring, which is where he thrives. Honestly, the publicity, even the bad, has only made him a bigger name. The fight everyone wants to see is Benn vs. Eubank, which was nearly finalized before. I believe it will happen, likely early next year.”

That was G speaking with Tony Sims last week. Since then, we’ve learned more. Gareth A. Davies highlighted on last week’s show that the UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) and British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) had a deadline to appeal the independent panel’s decision to lift Conor Benn’s second provisional suspension. That deadline passed on Wednesday, and they issued a statement confirming they would not appeal the decision. This allows Benn to proceed with acquiring a BBBofC license or continue fighting under a different license.

What do you make of the decision not to appeal the suspension? Last week, we touched on this, but some aspects remain confidential under Chatham House rules. More information will surface as decisions unfold. It’s worth noting that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) still has jurisdiction and could intervene, given their authority over banned substances. For instance, caffeine and brandy were once prohibited. So, while UKAD has backed down, WADA’s stance remains a factor.

Eddie Hearn has been vocal about pushing forward with securing a BBBofC license for Benn, particularly for the Chris Eubank Jr. fight next year. However, there’s also talk of Mario Barrios as a potential opponent. Frank Smith of Matchroom has mentioned difficulties in negotiations with Eubank. It’s puzzling, given the immense financial stakes of this fight. With Wembley or Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as potential venues, this could be a two-fight deal worth at least $10 million each for the fighters. The stumbling block might be weight divisions; I firmly believe it should happen at middleweight.

Finally, regarding Conor Benn’s reputation: Do you think transparency is necessary for him to move forward with fans and his career? I completely agree. Benn should allow UKAD and the BBBofC to disclose the full details of his case. That way, the public can decide for themselves. It’s essential for him to clear his name and live without the shadow of being labeled a drug cheat. If it’s legally possible, I hope they pursue this path.

However, this case highlights broader issues about the governance of drug testing. While some details are public, much remains behind the scenes. Over the past two years, we’ve spent countless hours discussing this. Neither you nor I have ever called Benn a drug cheat; we simply want transparency so he can move on and rebuild his career.

Hopefully, that’s where this situation leads.”

Conor Benn is a tremendous puncher and improving all the time.

Both he and Eubank Jr being the sons of boxing legends Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank Senior make this a huge fight in all aspects if it happens next up.

Big fight.

Good clash of styles.