Former WBO world heavyweight champion Joseph Parker has had his drugs ban lifted and is targeting a return to the ring before the end of the year, stating that he is ready for a big fight. According to 1News, the 34-year-old New Zealand boxer spent months on the sidelines after failing a voluntary test that revealed traces of cocaine following his defeat to Fabio Wardley in the United Kingdom late last year.
The Road to Reinstatement and Career Relief
Parker described the initial fallout from the positive test as devastating to his boxing career. According to 1News, the heavyweight contender was in tears when he received the news, immediately fearing for his future in the sport before his wife urged him to relax and reminded him that he did nothing wrong during their training camp. The sudden suspension halted his momentum in the heavyweight division, but the recent lifting of the ban has cleared the path for his next move.
“Imagine getting told you’d failed a drugs test and getting told it’s cocaine. Like, it’s a shock… and how are you going to navigate through this whole ordeal?” Parker told 1News, adding that he is now ready to fight again.
Did you know? Joseph Parker captured the WBO world heavyweight title a decade ago in Auckland by defeating Andy Ruiz Jr., a milestone he recently referenced while discussing the title path of cruiserweight David Nyika.
Manager David Higgins Outlines Next Steps for a Free Agent
With his suspension officially overturned, Parker operates as an unattached free agent ready to field offers from promoters. According to manager David Higgins, speaking to 1News, Parker cannot comment on the specific details or resolution of the failed test until all matters are finalized. However, Higgins emphasized that the boxer remains a major draw on pay-per-view broadcasts.
“It’s good to be back in business and to start planning what the next move is for Joseph,” Higgins told 1News. “He’s in demand. He’s a big name around the world now, he’s only 34 but he’s a veteran of boxing with so many big names on his resume.”
Higgins noted that because top-tier heavyweights view Parker as beatable, securing matchups should prove manageable. Current WBO world heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois has previously avoided facing Parker, according to Higgins, leaving several lucrative options open as the New Zealand veteran weighs his return.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Joseph Parker suspended?
According to 1News, Joseph Parker received a suspension after failing a voluntary drug test that showed traces of cocaine following his bout against Fabio Wardley in the United Kingdom.
Is Joseph Parker’s drugs ban still active?
No. According to 1News, the ban has been lifted, and Parker is cleared to resume his boxing career and plan fights for later in the year.
Who is Joseph Parker’s manager?
David Higgins manages Joseph Parker, handling his career direction and promotional status as a free agent, according to 1News.
What weight division does Joseph Parker fight in?
Joseph Parker competes in the heavyweight division, where he is a former WBO world champion.
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