Conor Benn is targeting a return to boxing in Britain after an encouraging first fight of 2023.
Benn returned to action after a year and a half away from the sport, when he took on Rodolfo Orozco on the Hitchins vs. Zepeda card live on DAZN on Saturday night in Orlando, Florida.
He secured a unanimous decision victory over the Mexican, with Orozco going the distance despite some solid connections landed by his British opponent.
Benn is not yet permitted to fight in Britain as he continues to try to earn back his boxing licence in his home country.
That had led to the decision to fight in the US as a way to feel his way back to the sport.
Benn continues to be linked with a fight against Chris Eubank Jr. after last year’s proposed clash fell through.
Eubank is looking for a high-profile next fight after beating Liam Smith in the rematch between the Britons.
“We didn’t want a walk in the park,” said Benn after the fight. “I needed the rounds after 18 months out, he’s a true Mexican, my first Mexican I’ve fought, and we knew he was durable. Credit to him, he’s never been stopped before and he’s one tough man and I hope he progresses.
“[Junior middleweights] are stronger and take shots more, I don’t think there was ring rust, I was going through the gears after going through hell.
“Britain is my home and it’s only right I fight back there, sooner rather than later.”