Former heavyweight champion cleared to return as statement is released.
In the messy sport of boxing, one big problem that stands tall in a sea of problems is drug testing. When a fighter–especially a high-profile one–tests positive for a banned substance, it is imperative that the proper actions are carried out.
But sometimes, things ultimately end with fans and others in the boxing world being dissatisfied with the outcome. With such a delicate topic, this is often inevitable.
However, there are times when things get even more complicated. Take, for example, the case of Joseph Parker, who was found to have failed a drug test on the very day of his fight with Fabio Wardley.
However, Parker–who was considered probably the most in-form heavyweight in the world prior to the Wardley defeat–tested positive for cocaine, which is not a performance-enhancing drug. Nonetheless, it was thought that he would be out of action for a while.
And with the Wardley fight occurring almost 10 months ago, there has definitely been a stall in his career. Only, yesterday, it was announced that he was officially cleared to return to action after his suspension was lifted.
Now UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) have released a statement on the situation, seemingly providing an explanation as to why Parker failed the test in the first place.
“On 6 March, 2026, Mr. Parker provided UKAD with evidence claiming that the adverse analytical finding was the result of his exposure to cocaine used by the nutritionist he had employed in preparation for the bout on 25 October, 2025”, the statement read.
“The nutritionist stated that he was a regular user of cocaine and had used cocaine daily in the week leading up to the bout.”
Nonetheless, the big man from New Zealand is now able to make his return to the ring.
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