Joseph Parker has expressed a profound sense of relief after the suspension stemming from a disputed drug test was removed, 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 on the night he suffered an 11th‑round stoppage loss to Fabio Wardley in October, tested positive for traces of cocaine. Parker has consistently denied any intentional use of prohibited substances, and the British Boxing Board of Control ultimately decided to lift the ban, clearing the way for his return.
Higgins, who is now mapping out Parker’s next career move, believes the fighter could realistically schedule two bouts before the close of 2026. "A mix of relief, excitement and pure energy," Higgins said when asked about Parker’s mental state. "Joseph is itching to get back in the gym. He was up early this morning for a run and feels like he’s at the peak of his physical condition.
Heavyweights typically hit their prime in their thirties, and at 34 Joseph still has plenty of mileage left, even if his résumé reads like that of a seasoned veteran." The manager added that Parker has already voiced a desire to fight this calendar year. "It could be a tune‑up fight followed by a marquee showdown at the end of the year, or we could go straight to a big event – the plan is flexible," Higgins explained.
The conversation about a potential schedule has already sparked interest among promoters and fans alike, especially given Parker’s extensive list of high‑profile opponents. Over the course of his career he has squared off against the likes of Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, Andy Ruiz Jr., Derek Chisora, Dillian Whyte, Fabio Wardley, Joe Joyce and Zhilei Zhang. While the loss to Wardley halted Parker’s momentum toward another world title, Higgins remains "supremely confident" that the Kiwi can reclaim championship status.
"Joseph knows what it takes because he’s done it before. He’s a free agent now, so we’re reviewing every offer on the table, weighing risk against reward. If you look at history, even Lennox Lewis suffered a few setbacks before his dominance in his thirties. There’s no reason Joseph can’t follow a similar path." The manager also hinted at several possible match‑ups that could reignite Parker’s title aspirations.
One option is a bout against the winner of the upcoming Daniel Dubois versus Fabio Wardley rematch, a fight that will see Dubois defending the vacant WBO belt he currently holds. Another tantalising prospect is a rematch with Dillian Whyte, a fight that would settle unfinished business from their previous encounter. Higgins recalled a cancelled world‑title showdown with Dubois that fell through due to Parker’s sudden illness, after which the fight was re‑booked with Martin Bakole, whom Parker knocked out.
"There’s still a lot left to settle with both Dubois and Whyte," he said. "If the terms are right, Joseph is ready to step into the ring with any of them." Beyond the immediate fight planning, Parker’s return is being positioned as the final chapter of a distinguished career.
Higgins emphasized that the boxer is not looking to retire quietly but rather to make a decisive push for the top spot once more. "We’re not quitters. Joseph is looking forward to a final two or three runs in his career, and we want to make sure each step is calculated and maximises his chances of becoming a world champion again." The broader boxing community has taken note of Parker’s situation.
Sky Sports, for instance, has highlighted the developments across its platforms, encouraging fans to follow the latest updates via WhatsApp for videos, analysis and breaking news. The network also promoted upcoming events such as the IBF middleweight title fight between Aaron McKenna and Etinosa Oliha in Dublin, underscoring the vibrant state of the sport. In summary, Joseph Parker’s ban has been lifted, and with his manager’s strategic guidance, he is poised to re‑enter the heavyweight landscape with renewed vigor. At 34, he still possesses the physical attributes and experience to compete at the highest level.
Whether it’s a tune‑up bout, a clash with the Dubois‑Wardley winner, or a long‑awaited rematch with Dillian Whyte, Parker’s camp is actively exploring options that align with his goal of reclaiming a world title. The next few months will be crucial in determining the exact path, but the consensus among insiders is clear: Parker is back, motivated, and ready to chase championship glory once more.