One of the biggest knots in recent years has been untied in the world of professional boxing. Former heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker has officially resumed his career. The temporary suspension of the New Zealand fighter, imposed following a scandalous doping incident, has been lifted.
End of the Investigation
The lengthy investigation conducted by the United Kingdom Anti-Doping agency (UKAD) has concluded with the lifting of restrictions. The scandal erupted after Parker's defeat to Fabio Wardley last October. Traces of cocaine were found in the doping sample taken on the day of the fight.
Throughout the suspension period, the 34-year-old boxer categorically denied any wrongdoing. His defense insisted that the substance entered his body accidentally due to sample contamination. The athlete himself repeatedly emphasized the absurdity of the idea of intentionally using a narcotic before a title fight.
Return to the Ring
Joseph Parker himself commented on the situation on social media, confirming that he is ready to step into the ring again.
"I am happy to confirm that the temporary suspension has been lifted, and I will return to the ring soon. I have been advised not to comment further as details are still being finalized. Thank you all for your support," the New Zealander wrote.
According to the fighter, he has already found an opponent and plans to hold his next fight in his homeland, New Zealand.
New Role: Promoter
Alongside returning to the status of an active fighter, Parker is expanding his horizons in the sports industry. Over the coming weekend, he will attend a boxing night in Auckland, where he will serve as a promoter. At this tournament, his compatriot David Nyika will face Floyd Masson for the right to become an IBF heavyweight title contender.
