Joseph Parker has expressed a profound sense of relief after the suspension stemming from a failed anti‑doping test was removed, and his manager David Higgins says the former WBO heavyweight champion is eager to step back into the ring before the year ends. The New Zealander tested positive for traces of cocaine in a UK Anti‑Doping sample taken on the night he was stopped by Fabio Wardley in October, but Parker has consistently denied any intentional use of prohibited substances. Following a review, the British Boxing Board of Control cleared him, and the ban was lifted, opening the door for a swift return to competition. Higgins, who has been steering Parker’s career for several years, is already mapping out the next steps.
He believes the fighter could realistically line up two bouts before the close of 2026, depending on how negotiations evolve and which opponents become available. "A mixture of relief, excitement and pure energy," Higgins said when asked about Parker’s current mindset.
"Joseph is itching to get back in the gym and the ring. He was up early this morning for a run, feeling like he’s at the peak of his physical condition." At 34, Parker sits at an age many heavyweight analysts consider the sweet spot for a boxer’s prime.
While the sport often sees champions hit their stride in their early thirties, the Kiwi’s resume already includes encounters with virtually every top‑tier heavyweight of his generation: Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, Andy Ruiz Jr., Derek Chisora, Dillian Whyte, Fabio Wardley, Joe Joyce and Zhilei Zhang. Despite a setback in the 11th round against Wardley that halted his momentum toward another world title, Higgins remains "supremely confident" that Parker can reclaim championship status. "Joseph knows what it takes because he’s done it before," Higgins explained. "He’s a free agent now, so we’re reviewing all offers on the table, weighing each on a risk‑and‑return basis.
If the terms make sense, we’ll move forward." Higgins drew a parallel to former champion Lennox Lewis, noting that even Lewis suffered a few defeats before his dominance in his thirties. "History shows that a couple of losses don’t define a career; they can be the catalyst for a resurgence. Joseph is looking at what could be his final two or three runs in the sport, and he’s not shy about taking on any challenge." Potential match‑ups are already being discussed. One intriguing scenario involves the winner of the upcoming Daniel Dubois versus Fabio Wardley rematch.
Dubois currently holds Parker’s former WBO belt, and a clash with the victor would be a high‑profile opportunity. Parker has also hinted at a desire to settle unfinished business with Dillian Whyte, a fighter he previously faced. "If the deal is right, Joseph would love to make any of those fights happen," Higgins affirmed.
The context of Parker’s recent drug‑testing controversy adds another layer to the narrative. Earlier this year, Parker was slated to fight Dubois for a world title, but he withdrew abruptly, citing illness. The bout was subsequently rearranged with Martin Bakole stepping in, and Parker secured a knockout victory over Bakole.
Higgins insists that the earlier withdrawal was unrelated to the doping allegation and that the positive test result was a false alarm that has now been cleared. Looking ahead, Parker’s manager says the fighter is eager for a tune‑up fight to shake off any ring rust, followed by a marquee showdown later in the year. Whether that culminates in a title challenge or a high‑stakes bout against a top‑ranked opponent remains to be seen, but the consensus among Parker’s camp is that the timing is right.
"He feels like he’s at his physical best, and the mental side is just as strong," Higgins noted. "We’re going to evaluate every offer, but the priority is to get Joseph back in front of a crowd where he can showcase his power and skill again." Fans can stay updated on Parker’s progress through Sky Sports’ channels, including WhatsApp updates that deliver the latest news, video highlights, and in‑depth analysis. As the heavyweight division continues to evolve, the question now is not whether Parker will return, but how quickly he can re‑establish himself among the elite and whether he can capture another world title before the inevitable decline that comes with age. With his ban lifted, his motivation renewed, and a clear plan in place, Joseph Parker appears poised to embark on the next chapter of his storied career.