After a frustrating wait, Joseph Parker has been cleared to return to the ring.
Denying any wrong-doing, Parker was subject to a lengthy investigation by the UK Anti-Doping (UKAD), which put his career on hold and his reputation in peril.
It now appears he will have his name cleared after releasing a statement to The Post on Wednesday.
“I’m pleased to confirm my provisional suspension is lifted and I’ll be back in the ring soon. I’ve been advised to say no more for now while details are finalised. Thank you to all my supporters,” Parker said in the reported statement.
The former WBO heavyweight champion said he believed the failed test was caused by sample contamination.
RNZ has reached out to UKAD for comment.
“There’s this thing looming over me all the time. It probably has damaged my reputation, being called a drug cheat and being caught up in all this. A drug cheat is someone doing steroids. But anyone who failed a drug test is labelled a drug cheat. But I know I did nothing wrong. I’ve given all the evidence I can to prove my innocence. Now we’re just waiting on the judgement and the final decision. Hopefully they can look at everything we’ve provided and make a decision soon. I want to carry on with my career and my life.”
Parker said he would pursue any major fight opportunities if he was cleared to compete again.
“As soon as my name is cleared, I’ll fight anyone and everyone,” he said.
Parker is currently helping to promote David Nyika vs Floyd Masson in Auckland this Saturday night.