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Former heavyweight champ ⁠Parker cleared to fight again after doping ban

From Al Jazeera · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Former heavyweight champion Joseph Parker has been cleared to resume his boxing career after a provisional suspension.
  • Parker was suspended in October following a voluntary drug test that indicated the presence of a prohibited substance.
  • He denied knowingly taking any banned substance and expressed his gratitude to supporters.

Former heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker is set to return to the boxing ring after his provisional suspension was lifted. Parker faced a ban after failing a voluntary drug test on October 25, the same day he lost to Britain's Fabio Wardley in London. The New Zealander, aged 34, had consistently denied taking any prohibited substances. Reports at the time suggested that Parker had tested positive for traces of cocaine. The British Boxing Board of Control confirmed that the suspension has been lifted, though details were not provided. Parker, who held the WBO title from 2016 to 2018 before being defeated by Anthony Joshua, expressed his relief and gratitude. "I'm pleased to confirm my provisional suspension is lifted and I'll be back in the ring soon," Parker stated. He also mentioned that he has been advised not to comment further for the time being as the details are being finalized. Parker's professional record stands at 36 wins and four defeats.

I’m pleased to confirm my provisional suspension is lifted and I’ll be back in the ring soon.

— Joseph ParkerAnnouncing the lifting of his provisional suspension and his imminent return to boxing.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Al Jazeera. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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