May 4, 2024

NXTGEN: Conor Benn blasted past Kane Baker in the second round on his debut at York Hall

Sky Sports

By Matt Horan

Conor Benn made it three knockouts in a row after he stopped Kane Baker with an explosive flurry of punches
Conor Benn made it three knockouts in a row after he stopped Kane Baker with an explosive flurry of punches

Conor Benn was at his destructive best as he blasted aside Kane Baker in two rounds on his York Hall debut.

The 20-year-old, son of boxing great Nigel, continued his unbeaten streak in the pro game by landing a huge combination in the second stanza that forced the referee to waive the contest off.

Benn and Baker battle on the inside early on
Benn and Baker battle on the inside early on

It was the previously unbeaten Baker who jumped out the blocks and looked to quickly disrupt Benn finding any rhythm, but ‘The Destroyer’ seized control in the first with some chopping combinations.

Oleksandr Usyk v Marco Huck.
FIGHT OUTRIGHT
Oleksandr Usyk
1/25
Draw
33/1
Marco Huck
15/2

Although wild and rugged, Baker tried to turn the bout into a slug-fest but it proved detrimental as Benn quickly landed an explosive right hand that sent his 27-year-old opponent sprawling across the ring, the ropes the only thing keeping him on his feet.

Conor Benn impressed as he brutally stopped Kane Baker
Conor Benn impressed as he brutally stopped Kane Baker

In the second, the Birmingham man had a point taken off after a deliberate headbutt and with his opponent faltering under the bright York Hall lights, Benn remained composed and picked his punishing shots well.

The unbeaten Essex star went on the attack and a lead left hand landed flush before a big right then a left had Baker in all sorts of trouble and sent him to the canvas. The ref let Baker get up but rightly stopped him on his feet.

Benn moves to 8-0-KO6
Benn moves to 8-0-KO6

Delighted with his York Hall debut, Benn said to Sky Sports afterwards: “It was unbelievable here, I wish I could fight here more often, I was nervous for this one because the atmosphere is on you – it’s like a jungle in there.

Conor Benn says his new patient approach is the reason he is stopping more of his opponents
Conor Benn says his new patient approach is the reason he is stopping more of his opponents

“I felt good and am improving every time, it’s all learning, I’m a novice and I’m getting there. Baker was good, he had a full training camp for this.

“I’m picking my shots now and taking my time now. I’m still a kid, let’s see what happens down the line.”

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