Joseph Parker, the former heavyweight boxing champion from New Zealand, has been cleared to resume his professional career following a three-month suspension related to a banned substance violation. The 34-year-old tested positive for cocaine on October 25, 2025, the same day he suffered a defeat to British boxer Fabio Wardley at London’s O2 Arena.
According to the United Kingdom Anti-Doping authority, Parker’s positive result stemmed from exposure to cocaine used by his nutritionist rather than intentional consumption by the athlete himself. The nutritionist acknowledged being a regular cocaine user and had used the substance daily during the week leading up to the bout. Parker consistently maintained his innocence throughout the process, denying any deliberate intake of prohibited substances.
In June, authorities determined that Parker’s cocaine exposure occurred outside of competition and therefore had no connection to athletic performance, leading to the lifting of his suspension. Parker announced the clearance himself before the official statement was released by the anti-doping body. The boxer’s record stands at 36 victories and four defeats, having previously held the WBO heavyweight title from 2016 to 2018 before losing to Anthony Joshua.
Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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