Boxing-Benn denies being refused a licence to fight again at 55

ByReuters

Published 09/10/2019 at 12:20 GMT

LONDON, Oct 9 (Reuters) - Former world boxing champion Nigel Benn has denied being turned down for a licence to make a comeback at the age of 55 and said on Wednesday he welcomed further medical tests to prove his fitness to fight.

Eurosport

Image credit: Eurosport

The Briton, who last fought in 1996, is coming out of retirement for a Nov. 23 fight in Birmingham against Cameroon-born Australian Sakio Bika, a 40-year-old ex-world champion.

The former WBC super-middleweight champion confirmed he had made a formal application to the British & Irish Boxing Association (BIBA) for a licence.

"I refute the claims that I re-applied for a licence with any other accredited sanctioning body (as has been stated in the press)," he said in a statement. "Therefore, I have not been refused a licence as alleged."

Boxing

Hrgovic 'to retire' if he loses to Dubois, ready to replace Fury if Usyk fight falls through

17/04/2024 at 11:33

The Daily Telegraph newspaper quoted British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) general secretary Robert Smith last month as saying Benn had asked them about a licence.

"He was told that we would not consider it, given his age and how long he has been away from the sport. We will not be licensing this event, it will not be under our jurisdiction," he said then.

Benn acknowledged the risks and need to satisfy medical experts, but said also that he felt discriminated against because of his age.

"I've welcomed the requirements of BIBA to clearly establish that I am 'fit to box'," he said. "I have undergone numerous and regular medical investigations to confirm this, including periodic MRI brain scans."

Benn said he would have further tests in the next few weeks, including another brain scan, "to provide clear clarification of my state of health" and there would be extra safety measures at the fight.

He has said he wants to fight again for 'closure', and personal peace of mind, rather than any financial reasons. (Reporting by Alan Baldwin, editing by Christian Radnedge)

Boxing

Wilder trainer: Joshua fight 'just as big as before', we're 'ashamed' of Parker defeat

17/04/2024 at 10:19

Boxing

'Dream come true' - Taylor rematch with Serrano to take place on Paul v Tyson card

16/04/2024 at 17:56

Boxing

Beterbiev's trainer sees no sign of decline in champion ahead of Bivol undisputed clash

16/04/2024 at 11:01

Join 3M+ users on app

Stay up to date with the latest news, results and live sports

Download

Scan me