Sir Edward of Hearn, saviour of boxing, number one customer of Gillette shaving products, Bob Arum superfan, Sky Sports sworn enemy, DAZN brown noser, and the epitome of narcissism, has been talking up Conor Benn, son of the Dark Destroyer. He thinks Conor will be a world champion in the not too distant future. So, do we think that is nonsense - given the talent in his division? Benn hasn't really fought anyone of note, and the question is how much more time, experience, refining of his technique etc...do we feel he needs before he can start to think about the big guns...if ever? I mean, what would happen if he were put in with Spence jnr, or Crawford, or even someone like Porter, or an ageing Pacquiao? How far away is he from being able to face those guys, or is he never going to be good enough? I like Conor, he's game, and loves to fight (like his Dad), but what is he lacking? What does he need to work on before even considering a step up like that? Or, do you think he's ready right now? Would his confidence, and ruggedness, see him hold his own? I'm interested to see what everyone thinks of him right now and what is his potential?
I really like him. Although, that division is too strong. He might beat some of the top guys there once they are faded, as he is 24 years old and some of them are mid thirties. I can't ever see him as the number 1 at 147. He could have a decent career and resume. Maybe a few decent names who were faded. He will definitely pick up a few losses (just like any other fighter) against guys who know how to deal with his (slightly above average but not destructive) power. Conor Benn has a weird body type. I don't know how to explain it. He looks really small, I couldn't believe it when I first seen that he is a welterweight. Maybe someone could elaborate better than me. He is great to watch, good for the sport and brings in viewers. As always, the media will overhype anyone they can get their hands on but we, as fans, should not hold that against him.
He probably won't be the best 147 or even win a world title. But he will possibly have the best beard transplant in the division
I get what you mean, it's a pretty tough division...though he does have age on his side, as you say. He's quite compact and short, I think, so maybe that is why he looks small for the weight?
His development has been superb given his limited amateur background and essentially learning on the job as a pro. Can clearly see he's been putting in the hard graft in the gym with Tony Sims.
I think people overlook how little amateur experience he has. Especially, when you consider his father, you'd expect him to have been at it since he was able to walk. But, he came to the sport relatively late.
He’s improved a lot and has gotten further than I expected. I’d like to see him fight josh Kelly still
Had Kelly not lost recently it was building nicely between the two of them - with a big domestic dust up on the cards. That fight seems to have lost something, which is a shame. Kelly is another who seemed to have a lot to offer, but since his loss there are genuine question marks over his pedigree.
Voted No Chance basically because of the wording of the title. Title says will he ever be THE top guy at 147. In the post, you say "Will he be a world champion?". If that's the real question, my response would be "Let's wait and see", because being a world champion doesn't mean you're the top guy. I think he has a decent chance of being a world champion, depending on who he is matched with. He's young and the cream of the crop at 147 mainly are not.
To date he has beaten those put before him so all good there, but as we know Conor is learning his trade in the pro ranks, so think we need to see him fight a couple of higher rated fighters before we can make a credible prediction about Conors future. However despite Conor saying he is ready to beat the elite of the division and Hearn talking big, Sims his astute trainer seems to be keeping things on a sensible even developmental course, let us hope Sims is not replaced. Can Conor be top dog in the division? yeah why not if he continues to develop, is he ready to be facing fighters of that level now, no.
I get what you mean. Though, being a world champion does kind of imply you are up there as/or with the top guy(s). The poll was really saying 'can he ever be considered the best'? Like you say, he has time on his side, so that could definitely play into his hands. I voted not sure, as I think it's still too early to really say.
Maybe he is very good, I can't tell. He like Buatsi too is not tested with any 1 top 100 material boxer in the pro ring if to be honest here. Buatsi at least was amateur star, nothing wrong that not superstar.
