Benn's failed drug test results in postponement of bout with Eubank Jr

Saturday's domestic dust-up between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn has been postponed.

The bout at London's O2 Arena was thrown into doubt yesterday when it came to light that trace amounts of a fertility drug had been detected in a sample Benn had submitted to VADA. 

The British Boxing Board of Control then stepped in to declare the fight was "prohibited" and "not in the interests of boxing". 

Eddie Hearn was confident the catchweight contest would still go ahead but the Matchroom Boxing supremo and co-promoters Wasserman Boxing have now opted to call off the show. 

A joint statement said: "After discussions with various parties, we have taken the decision to formally postpone the bout between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn.

"It is undeniable that the British Boxing Board of Control’s decision to withdraw their sanctioning was procedurally flawed and without due process.

"That remains a legal issue between the promoters and the board, which we intend to pursue. 

"However, while there are legal routes to facilitate the fight taking place as planned, we do not believe that it is in the fighters’ interests for those to be pursued at such a late stage, or in the wider interests of the sport.

"As promoters, we take our obligations and duties very seriously and a full investigation will now need to take place.

"We will be making no further comment at this time and news for ticket holder refunds will follow."

Hearn had taken to Twitter before the statement was released to kill off speculation that the grudge fight could be sanctioned by another governing body. 

He said: "Let’s see what today brings. But to make one thing clear, I will not be promoting this fight with a foreign commission or alternative governing body on Saturday night."

Despite the uncertainty regarding what would happen, unbeaten Benn, 26, appeared as scheduled at yesterday's open workout. 

He said at the event: "I’ve not committed any violations. I’ve not been suspended. So as far as I’m concerned, the fight is still going ahead. 

"I’ve spoken to Chris personally and we still want the fight to go ahead. We want the fight to happen for the fans. 

"Throughout my whole career, all my tests have come up negative. I’m a clean athlete and we’ll get to the bottom of this. 

"Chris fully believes in me. I’m a professional athlete and he was understanding."

Speaking to iFLTV at the workout, 33-year-old Eubank added: "What he's done is being investigated and things have to be right. I'm on weight. I did my job. 

"It's unfortunate and it's a shame. I am starving right now and I am dehydrated — I've sacrificed, so let's hope this can be salvaged."

Following the decision to postpone the bout, Benn tweeted: "I am truly gutted that we were unable to make this fight happen on Saturday and I'm sorry to everyone who has been affected by the postponement.

"I am still completely shocked and surprised by this and it has been a tough couple of days. 

"My team and I will consider the next options, including rescheduling the fight, but my immediate focus is on clearing my name because I am a clean athlete."

Eubank also had his say on social media. The Brighton-based fighter posted: "Conor got caught using an illegal substance so the fight is off.

"Can't believe it. I really apologise to the fans and everyone that bought tickets, travelled and booked hotels. 

"This should not have happened. He has escaped his schooling… for now."