Heavyweight boxer Joseph Parker has announced that his ban has been lifted, allowing him to fight again. This follows a reported positive test for cocaine.
Traces of cocaine were reportedly found in a test Parker provided to the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency before his October loss to Fabio Wardley. The test result was made public after his 11th-round defeat at London's O2 Arena, where he lost the interim WBO heavyweight belt.
Parker, 34, denied taking any banned substances, stating he does not use performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). Although cocaine is a recreational drug and not a PED, its use can lead to a multi-year ban for a boxer.
“I’m pleased to confirm my provisional suspension is lifted, and I’ll be back in the ring soon,” Parker said on Wednesday, adding he had been advised to say no more while details are finalised.