Joseph Parker has expressed a profound sense of relief after the suspension stemming from a failed drug test was rescinded, and his manager David Higgins confirms that the former WBO heavyweight champion will step back into the ring before the year ends. The New Zealander’s anti‑doping sample, taken in the United Kingdom on the night he suffered a defeat to Fabio Wardley in October, initially returned a trace of cocaine. Parker has consistently denied any intentional use of prohibited substances, and after a thorough review the British Boxing Board of Control lifted the provisional ban, clearing the way for his comeback. Higgins, who has been guiding Parker’s career for several years, is already mapping out the next steps.
He believes Parker could realistically line up two fights before the close of 2026, depending on how negotiations unfold and which opponents become available. "A blend of relieved, excited, and energised," Higgins said when asked about his fighter’s current mindset. "Joseph is champing at the bit to get back into the ring. He was up early this morning for a run, feeling like he’s at the peak of his powers." At 34, Parker sits at an age that many boxing analysts consider the sweet spot for heavyweight champions.
While the sport often sees its biggest stars hitting their prime in their early to mid‑thirties, Parker’s resume already includes bouts with virtually every top‑tier heavyweight of his generation. He has squared off against Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, Andy Ruiz Jr., Derek Chisora, Dillian Whyte, Fabio Wardley, Joe Joyce and Zhilei Zhang, among others. Despite the recent setback, his experience and physical condition suggest he still has plenty of fight left in him.
Higgins explained that Parker has voiced a strong desire to fight this year. "He would love to get a tune‑up fight and then a big showdown at the end of the year, or possibly just a marquee bout at year‑end," Higgins added. The manager also hinted that Parker is open to a range of possibilities, from a strategic warm‑up bout to a high‑stakes title challenge, depending on what makes sense financially and competitively. The loss to Wardley in the 11th round was a significant hurdle, halting Parker’s momentum toward another world title.
However, Higgins remains supremely confident in Parker’s ability to rebound. "Joseph knows what it takes to win a world championship; he’s done it before," he said. "He’s a free agent right now, so we’re reviewing every offer on the table, weighing risk versus reward. If the deal is right, we’ll take it." The manager drew a parallel with former champion Lennox Lewis, noting that even Lewis suffered a couple of defeats before dominating the heavyweight division in his thirties.
"History shows that setbacks can be a catalyst for greatness," Higgins remarked. "We’re not quitters, and Joseph is looking forward to what could be his final two or three runs at the top of the sport." Potential opponents are already being discussed. Parker’s former WBO belt is currently held by Daniel Dubois, who is slated to defend it against Fabio Wardley in a rematch later this year.
A clash with the winner of that bout would be an attractive option for Parker, who also expressed interest in a rematch with Dillian Whyte. "There’s unfinished business with both Dubois and Whyte," Higgins said. "If the terms are right, Joseph would love to make any of those fights happen." The backstory to the Dubois fight adds an extra layer of intrigue.
Parker was originally booked to face Dubois for a world title, but withdrew just days before the event citing illness. The replacement, Michael "Bakole" (the fight was later re‑booked and Parker knocked out Bakole), left a lingering sense that Parker still has something to prove against Dubois. Higgins emphasized that Parker is not afraid of any opponent and is eager to settle any lingering scores. Looking ahead, the manager indicated that a two‑fight plan for 2024 could involve an initial lower‑profile bout to sharpen Parker’s timing, followed by a high‑stakes encounter—potentially a title eliminator or even a direct challenge for a world belt.
The exact timing will depend on the boxing calendar, promotional negotiations, and the health of potential rivals. Regardless of the path, Parker’s team is committed to ensuring that any fight aligns with his long‑term goal of reclaiming a world championship.
Fans can stay updated on Parker’s progress via Sky Sports’ WhatsApp channel, which provides the latest news, video highlights, analysis and more. As the heavyweight division continues to evolve, Joseph Parker’s return adds another compelling storyline to an already crowded field, and his determination to prove himself after the ban’s removal promises an exciting chapter for the sport.