United Kingdom’s Conor Benn can finally take a sigh of relief as his suspension is lifted by the U.K. National Anti-Doping Panel (NADP). However, the 28-year-old isn’t out of the hot waters quite yet. Back in October 2022, Benn tested positive for the female fertility drug clomifene ahead of his scheduled high-profile fight against rival Chris Eubank Jr.

He had failed two doping tests, which were conducted by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA). This resulted in Benn getting banned by the NADP and the British Boxing Board of Control. Despite this, the NADP lifted Benn’s ban for a short time earlier this year, but they quickly reinstated it in May following an appeal from the BBBofC. 

Conor Benn—Cleared but not quite clear

Now, it appears Benn’s suspension has finally been lifted after UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) announced on Wednesday that the National Anti-Doping Panel (NADP) was not convinced UKAD had sufficiently proven its case against Benn. “UKAD can confirm that it received the decision of the independent National Anti-Doping Panel this afternoon,” UKAD said in a statement. 

“The Panel concluded that it was ‘not comfortably satisfied’ that UKAD had proved that Mr Benn had committed an Anti-Doping Rule Violation for the Use of clomifene.” Despite this ruling, UKAD has 21 days to file another appeal against Wednesday’s decision. The BBBofC has not given Benn’s boxing license back, which would allow him to fight in the UK.

If an appeal is filed, Benn’s prospects of fighting on his home turf would get delayed, and he will have to settle for fights in the United States or Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Benn seems to think he has been cleared of any wrongdoing, as he penned a statement on X. “I am thankful that after an incredibly challenging 2 years the National Anti-Doping Panel has today finally cleared me of any wrongdoing.”

Meanwhile, Benn’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has shared his thoughts on NADP’s decision to lift Benn’s ban. “After a horrendous two Years and a full hearing, so happy Conor has finally be cleared of any wrongdoing by the NADP. Get ready for one hell of a come back,” Hearn wrote on X. 

Regardless, after talkSport editor Michael Benson shared the update on X while highlighting the possibility of another appeal from UKAD—fans were left fuming. 

Fan demands there be no further appeal

After two years of banning and unbanning, fans seem to have finally had enough of the drama from UKAD and BBBofC in the Conor Benn case. One user shamed UKAD, claiming they got involved for no reason. “UKAD centered themselves in this case for no reason but for their own ego, it’s a shame. He never failed a UKAD test in the first place. It never made sense,” the user wrote. While it is true VADA had tested Benn, UKAD is the organization responsible for protecting sport in the U.K. from doping. 

Another user could not stand the possibility of another appeal. “No more appeals, it’s dragged on for too long,” the user commented. Interestingly, despite his suspension, Benn has appeared in two non-title fights outside of the UK. 

Someone sarcastically else predicted what would happen next. “So, basically the saga continues. Probably will be another 2 years before it reaches its conclusion,” the user commented. Well, the last time BBBofC appealed Benn’s suspension from being lifted, it’s yet to be seen whether UKAD does the same.

The next user claimed it doesn’t really matter whether UKAD appeals the decision or not because, for the user, Benn is a cheater. “Who cares at this point? Been going on for years and everybody knows Benn is a drug cheat regardless,” the user commented. However, Benn continues to advocate for his innocence. 

Meanwhile, even this user had similar feelings. “Wtf this s*** was 3 years ago no-one gives af 😴😂,” the user wrote. Regardless, Benn has called out Chris Eubank Jr. and Gervonta Davis for a fight next. 

That said, only time will tell what’s in the cards for Conor Benn—whether he’ll remain on the sidelines or get a chance to step back into the ring, at least in the UK. What’s your take on the NADP’s decision? Do you think UKAD might appeal it? And should Benn face a lifetime ban?