Chris Van Heerden Not Ready to Retire; Says Still Has Something to Prove
South African welterweight Chris Van Heerden (28-3-1, 12 KOs) had high hopes when he stepped into the ring with world-ranked 147 pounder Conor Benn (21-0, 14 KOs) on April 16 in Manchester, England. But after having his moments in round one, Van Heerden was hurt and stopped in round two.
It was a bitter disappointment, as he felt he had the skills and temperament to outbox Benn. He had also dedicated the fight to his father, who was murdered in 2018. Having a few days to reflect on the setback, Van Heerden took to social media to explain what was the cause of his defeat.
He argues the loss to Benn was the result of ring rust and thinks he’s a better fighter when active. Strongly believing there’s more fights left in him, he publicly asked promoter Eddie Hearn to get him back in the ring soon and often.
To his point, the Benn fight was only his fourth in three years. Before the contest, the last time he was in the ring was in December 2020 against the highly-touted Jaron Ennis. That bout was ruled a no-decision after Van Heerden suffered a cut due to an accidental headbutt in the first round.
ODDS ARE AGAINST HIM
Inactivity is not good for any boxer. You always want to be sharp mentally and physically every time you get in the ring. But here’s the issue with Van Heerden: while wanting to get back in there ASAP, professional boxing is based largely on economics and demand. He’s never been high-profile fighter nor a big-money attraction. He also lacks a great fan base and social media following.
Plus, at age 34, the South African is no longer in his physical prime. You also have to consider that he’s never had the most entertaining, crowd-pleasing style. So, where is the clamoring to see him fight again?
Truthfully, there’s no urgency from Hearn or whoever to put him back in the ring. He’s not the promoter’s highest of priorities. The desire may still be strong, but the reality is that Van Heerden’s future in this sport does not look too bright.
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By: Michael Wilson
