Joseph Parker, the former WBO world heavyweight champion, is set to return to the boxing ring after a successful appeal against a drug ban. The ban, which was lifted by the British Boxing Board of Control, followed a failed drug test on the day of his defeat by Fabio Wardley in October. Parker's manager, David Higgins, expressed relief and excitement for Parker's comeback, stating that he is 'champing at the bit' to get back into the ring. Higgins also noted that Parker is only 34 years old, still relatively young in the heavyweight division, and is at the peak of his powers.
Parker's return to the ring is expected to be a busy one, with Higgins suggesting that he could fight twice before the end of 2026. The former champion has shared the ring with many top heavyweights, including Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, Andy Ruiz Jr, Derek Chisora, Dillian Whyte, Joe Joyce, and Zhilei Zhang. Despite his recent setback, Higgins is confident that Parker can reclaim a world title, drawing parallels to Lennox Lewis, who also faced setbacks before achieving success in his thirties.
One of Parker's potential opponents is Daniel Dubois, who currently holds the WBO belt and will defend it against Wardley in a rematch later this year. Parker is also interested in a rematch with Dillian Whyte, with whom he had a scheduled world title fight that was canceled due to illness. Higgins emphasized that Parker is not afraid to face any opponent and is eager to resolve any unfinished business with both Dubois and Whyte.
The article also mentions Aaron McKenna, who is targeting Chris Eubank Jr. and other opponents after his recent world title fight. The focus, however, remains on Parker's comeback and his potential future matches, which could include a tune-up fight followed by a big bout at the end of the year. Parker's manager is confident that his client can become a world champion again, and the former champion is ready to take on the challenge once more.
