Boxing-Parker cleared to fight again after failed dope test


Boxing - Joseph Parker v Fabio Wardley - The O2, London, Britain - October 25, 2025 Joseph Parker makes his entrance to the ring before his fight against Fabio Wardley Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Couldridge

Aug 5 (Reuters) - Former ⁠heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker ⁠said on Wednesday he had been ‌cleared to fight again after failing a dope test last October.

The 34-year-old New Zealander, who ​held the WBO title ⁠from 2016 to ⁠2018, had denied taking a prohibited substance ⁠but ‌risked a two-year ban.

He failed the voluntary test on ⁠the day he fought and lost to ​Britain's ‌Fabio Wardley. British media reported at ⁠the time ​that he had tested positive for traces of cocaine.

"I'm pleased to confirm ⁠my provisional suspension is lifted ​and I'll be back in the ring soon," Parker said in a statement.

"I've ⁠been advised to say no more for now while details are finalised. Thank you to all my supporters."

Robert ​Smith, general secretary of ⁠the British Boxing Board of Control, confirmed ​the suspension had ‌been lifted but gave ​no details.

(Reporting by Alan Baldwin in London, editing by Ed Osmond)

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