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 confirmed that the former WBO heavyweight champion will step back into the ring before the year ends. The New Zealand fighter tested positive for traces of cocaine in a UK Anti-Doping sample taken on the night he suffered a defeat to Fabio Wardley in October. Parker has consistently denied any intentional use of prohibited substances, and the British Boxing Board of Control ultimately cleared him, allowing the ban to be lifted. Higgins, who oversees Parker’s career decisions, is already mapping out the next phase of the boxer’s journey.
He believes Parker could realistically line up two fights before the close of 2026, depending on how negotiations progress and which opponents become available. "A mix of relief, excitement and pure energy," Higgins said when asked about his fighter’s current mental state.
"Joseph is itching to get back under the lights. He was up early this morning for a run, and you can see the fire in his eyes." At 34 years old, Parker is entering what many analysts consider the prime window for a heavyweight. While the sport often sees its biggest stars peak in their early to mid‑thirties, Parker’s resume already reads like a who's‑who of modern heavyweight talent. He has squared off with Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, Andy Ruiz Jr., Derek Chisora, Dillian Whyte, Fabio Wardley, Joe Joyce and Zhilei Zhang.
Even though he has yet to capture a second world title, his experience against top‑tier opposition gives him a unique edge as he plans his comeback. Higgins explained that Parker is eager to fight this year, whether that means a tune‑up bout to shake off ring rust followed by a marquee clash later in the calendar, or a single high‑stakes encounter that could catapult him back into title contention. "Joseph has told me he wants to fight this year," Higgins said.
"It could be a warm‑up and then a big fight at the end of the year, or it could be a big fight at the end of the year." The loss to Wardley, which came via an 11th‑round stoppage, halted Parker’s momentum toward another world championship opportunity. Yet Higgins remains "supremely confident" that the Kiwi can reclaim his place at the summit.
He draws a parallel with former champion Lennox Lewis, who suffered a few setbacks early in his 30s before dominating the division. "If you look at history, even Lennox Lewis took a couple of losses and then, in his 30s, everything clicked and he became unbeatable," Higgins noted.
"Joseph knows what it takes because he’s done it before." Parker’s status as a free agent adds flexibility to his options. Higgins says the camp is reviewing every viable offer, weighing each on a risk‑and‑return basis. "We’ll look at anything that makes sense.
We’ll evaluate the merit of each potential fight," he said. The goal is to secure a bout that offers both a competitive challenge and a clear path back to a world title. One tantalising prospect is a showdown with the winner of the upcoming Daniel Dubois versus Fabio Wardley rematch. Dubois currently holds Parker’s former WBO belt, and a victory over the champion‑to‑be could serve as a statement win.
Additionally, Parker has expressed a desire to settle unfinished business with Dillian Whyte, a fight that would likely generate significant interest given their past encounter. Higgins also recalled a previously scheduled world title bout between Parker and Dubois that was abruptly called off when Parker withdrew citing illness.
"Bakole was slotted in and Joseph knocked him out, but there’s still unfinished business there," Higgins explained. "Joseph isn’t afraid to step into the ring with anyone, and a rematch with Whyte would be another compelling chapter." Beyond the immediate fight planning, Parker’s team is mindful of the broader narrative surrounding his career. The boxer has been open about the mental toll of the suspension, describing the period as a test of character.
Now, with his name cleared, he aims to prove that he can still compete at the highest level, leveraging his experience, power, and ring IQ. The broader heavyweight landscape also plays a role in shaping Parker’s options.
The division is currently stacked with rising stars and seasoned veterans, meaning a strategic selection of opponents could position Parker for a rapid ascent. Whether he chooses a high‑profile clash against a top‑ranked contender or a more measured approach with a lower‑risk opponent, the objective remains the same: to re‑establish himself as a legitimate title challenger. Fans can stay updated on Parker’s progress through Sky Sports’ various platforms, including WhatsApp updates, live streams, and in‑depth analysis.
As the heavyweight division continues to evolve, Joseph Parker’s return adds another layer of intrigue, promising exciting match‑ups and the potential for another chapter in his storied career.