Joseph Parker Cleared to Return Following Suspension

London, England, UK - Former WBO heavyweight champion Joseph Parker (36-4, 24 KOs) has been cleared to resume his boxing career after the British Boxing Board of Control lifted his provisional suspension following a lengthy anti-doping investigation.

Parker had been sidelined since his dramatic 11th-round stoppage loss to Fabio Wardley last October, after testing positive for traces of cocaine on fight day. The New Zealander consistently denied knowingly taking any prohibited substance and maintained throughout the investigation that he was confident the process would ultimately clear his name.

In a brief statement released following the decision, Parker confirmed that his suspension had been lifted and said he expects to return to the ring soon, adding that he had been advised not to comment further while remaining procedural matters are finalized.

The 34-year-old now returns to a heavyweight division that has changed dramatically during his absence. Once considered one of the leading contenders after victories over Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang and Martin Bakole, Parker will now begin the task of rebuilding his position in a crowded title picture.

While no opponent or return date has yet been announced, Parker's reinstatement adds another experienced former world champion back into an increasingly competitive heavyweight landscape.