Joseph Parker is free to resume his boxing career after the provisional suspension that sidelined him for more than seven months was lifted.
The decision ends a lengthy absence that began after Parker returned a positive cocaine test on the day of his October 25, 2025, bout with Fabio Wardley in London. Parker consistently maintained he never knowingly ingested any prohibited substance.
“I’m pleased to confirm my provisional suspension is lifted and I’ll be back in the ring soon,” Parker said in a statement provided to ESPN. “I’ve been advised to say no more for now while details are finalized. Thank you to all my supporters.”
The test result came from a sample collected on the day Parker faced Wardley at The O2 Arena. Cocaine is classified as a recreational substance under anti-doping rules rather than a performance-enhancing drug. Parker’s team argued the adverse finding resulted from contamination.
Wardley stopped Parker in the 11th round of their clash after controlling the second half of the fight, handing the former WBO heavyweight champion one of the most significant defeats of his professional career. The provisional suspension that followed kept Parker out of the ring while the investigation remained active.
ESPN reported that UK Anti-Doping and the British Boxing Board of Control were contacted for comment after Parker’s announcement. Neither organization responded before publication. Parker is now eligible to return to competition, with the remaining details of the case still being finalized.
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Last Updated on 2026/08/05 at 4:28 AM
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