**Former Heavyweight Champion Joseph Parker Cleared to Return to the Ring After Doping Ban**
Joseph Parker, the former heavyweight world champion from New Zealand, has announced that he has been cleared to resume his boxing career following a doping ban. The 34-year-old boxer faced a provisional suspension after failing a dope test in October 2025, shortly after his defeat to British fighter Fabio Wardley in London.
Parker's last bout took place on October 25, 2025, where he lost to Wardley. Following the fight, he underwent a voluntary drug test that revealed traces of a prohibited substance, which British media reported to be cocaine. Despite the positive test, Parker maintained his innocence, denying any intentional use of banned substances and facing the possibility of a two-year suspension.
In a recent statement, Parker expressed his relief at the lifting of his suspension, stating, "I’m pleased to confirm my provisional suspension is lifted and I’ll be back in the ring soon." He also mentioned that he had been advised to refrain from discussing further details until everything is finalized, thanking his supporters for their continued backing during this challenging period.
Robert Smith, the general secretary of the British Boxing Board of Control, confirmed the lifting of Parker's suspension but did not provide additional details regarding the case.
Parker, who held the World Boxing Organization (WBO) heavyweight title from 2016 to 2018, has a professional record of 36 wins and four losses. His title reign ended when he was defeated by Anthony Joshua in 2018. With his suspension now lifted, Parker is expected to announce his next fight soon, marking his return to the sport after a tumultuous period in his career.
As the boxing community awaits further developments, Parker's comeback will be closely monitored, particularly in light of the circumstances surrounding his previous fight and the doping allegations.