Joseph Parker cleared to fight after failed drugs test

<p>New Zealand heavyweight boxer and former world champion Joseph Parker has been cleared to fight again.</p> <p>Parker failed a voluntary fight-day anti-doping test following his <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2025/10/26/parkers-heavyweight-dream-turns-into-a-nightmare-defeat/" target="_blank">11th-round stoppage defeat to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley</a> last October after trace elements of cocaine were detected in his system.</p> <p>At the time, he issued a statement expressing his <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/05/21/its-crap-parker-eager-to-clear-name-after-failed-drug-test/" target="_blank">surprise </a>at the test result and stating he did not take a prohibited or performance-enhancing substance.</p> <p>In a statement today, Parker said: “I’m pleased to confirm my provisional suspension is lifted and I’ll be back in the ring soon.</p> <p>“I’ve been advised to say no more for now while details are finalised. Thank you to all my supporters.”</p> <p>Parker also today expressed support for compatriot David Nyika, who has an <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/06/24/david-nyika-title-eliminator-fight-to-be-broadcast-on-tvnz/" target="_blank">IBF world cruiserweight title eliminator fight</a> against Kiwi-Aussie Floyd Masson in Auckland on Saturday night.</p> <p>“Please join me in backing David Nyika for his world title eliminator this Saturday on TVNZ+. I believe Nyika will win this fight and secure a world title shot for New Zealand.”</p> <p><b>The Nyika v Masson fight will be exclusively broadcast on </b><a href="https://www.tvnz.co.nz/" target="_blank">TVNZ+</a></p>