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via Reuters

via Reuters

Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn were set to put their longstanding rivalry to the set on October 8, 2022, in a showdown that was rightfully billed as, ‘Born Rivals’. This was a major fight for both fighters as their fathers also maintained a fierce rivalry throughout the 1990s. However, fate was not on their side, as the fight had to be postponed after Benn failed a drug test. Benn recently took to social media to issue a statement regarding the same.

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The catchweight showdown between Eubank Jr. and Benn was set to take place at the O2 Arena in London. But, news quickly spread that Benn has returned a positive sample with the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA). Talking about Benn failing the drug test, Eubank Jr. said, “There’s no forgetting, absolutely not. Forgiveness, no, I don’t need to have that in my mind.”

He also mentioned that he would not have taken up the fight if he’d known that Benn had failed the drug test.

Conor Benn issues a statement regarding the failed drug test

It should be mentioned that Conor Benn has always maintained his innocence about the incident. And, in a recent social media post, he issued a statement where he opened up about the same.

He said, “It’s been really hard for me to accept that people think that I would do what I was accused of. But what I’ve come to realize is people rush to judgment. Without knowing the facts, especially people in the boxing community (and, most disappointingly, even those that know me).”

via Reuters

Benn further mentioned that he has stayed at the gym and continued working hard despite the adversities. Additionally, he also revealed that his team has proven his innocence. And that they would be letting the news out at the earliest.

READ MORE – Soon After Gervonta Davis Makes Doping Allegations Against Ryan Garcia, VADA Expresses Concerns Over ‘Unfair Officiating’

He stated that he will be back in 2023 to become the world champion. Benn also mentioned that he would be staying silent about the issue, until the news is officially released.

Fans share their thoughts on Benn’s statements

Boxing fans were not too convinced by Benn’s statement. In fact, they took to social media to share their thoughts about the same.

A few fans were quick to point out that Benn had failed two drug tests. And also mentioned that he would have earned more respect if he had accepted his mistake.

Meanwhile, a user compared the incident to the former cyclist, Lance Armstrong, failing his drug test.

Similarly, a few users accused Benn’s team and lawyers of covering up the incident.

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However, a user felt that there were far too many drug testing companies. The user also mentioned that there should only be one company that conducts drug tests.

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What are your thoughts on Benn’s statement? Do share in the comments below.

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