Joseph Parker's Boxing Ban Lifted, Set to Return to the Ring

New Zealand heavyweight Joseph Parker has had his provisional suspension lifted after a positive cocaine test from a voluntary anti‑doping sample taken on the day of his 11‑round loss to Fabio Wardley at London’s O2 Arena on 25 October 2025. The British Boxing Board of Control and UK Anti‑Doping (UKAD) confirmed the ban was removed, though they declined further comment. Parker denied knowingly taking any banned substance, claiming the result stemmed from contamination and providing evidence to investigators.

Parker announced, “I’m pleased to confirm my provisional suspension is lifted and I’ll be back in the ring soon,” adding that he has been advised not to discuss details while the case is finalised. The decision restores one of the heavyweight division’s leading contenders, who previously held the interim WBO title and has notable victories over Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang and Martin Bakole. He now plans to schedule a comeback fight later this year.

The lifting of the ban removes a major obstacle for Parker’s pursuit of another world‑title opportunity and reshapes the heavyweight landscape ahead of upcoming bouts involving other top fighters.