CONOR BENN CONTINUES HIS RISE TOWARDS MEGA FIGHT AS HE COOLS THE HEAT

Written by Jared Parry on 17th April 2022.

Conor Benn impresses yet again as he moved to 21-0 after producing a big second round knockout over southpaw Chris Van Heerden in Manchester.

Benn had only faced one southpaw in his career prior to the Van Heerden showdown, and that was early in his career as Cedrick Peynaud caused him problems.

Benn looked to pile on the pressure early in round one, Van Heerden weathered the storm and even landed some eye catching shots himself, but the round was in Benn's favour.

Van Heerden really looked like he was going to be a tough test for Benn, until Benn detonated a solid right hand, which stiffened Van Heerden's legs. Benn's predatory instinct kicked in as he unloaded on Van Heerden, putting 'The Heat' to the floor. Van Heerden couldn't make it to his feet confirming a second round knockout.

With another big test passed, promoter Eddie Hearn said that "it's time for the serious players in the division" listing names like Kell Brook, Mikey Garcia or Danny Garcia.

Amir Khan then entered the ring, whilst not giving too much away, the potential Benn Khan showdown was ultimately teased.

The undercard saw Chris Billiam-Smith definitively end his rivalry with Tommy McCarthy, he retained his European and Commonwealth titles with a big knockout in the 8th round of a gruelling rematch.

Alycia Baumgardner retained her WBC and IBO World titles with a shutout victory over Edith Soledad Matthysse. Campbell Hatton also picked up a shutout victory, as he defeated Ezequiel Gregores.

Jack Cullen returned to winning ways as he produced a points victory over Vladimir Belujsky. 

Manchester's Jordan Thompson added another knockout to his record as he dispatched of Mariano Angel Gudino in two rounds. Thomas Whittaker Hart picked up another points win as he defeated Ben Ridings over 8.

Luke Evans unfortunately failed to add another win to his record as he was held too a draw with Miguel Cesario Antin.

Finally, James Metcalf had a tune up for his showdown with Kerman Lejarraga, as he knocked out Evgenii Vazem in five rounds.