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 about the news, stating that Parker is 'champing at the bit' to get back into the ring.
The 34-year-old Parker has an impressive resume, having shared the ring with top heavyweights such as Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, Andy Ruiz Jr, Derek Chisora, Dillian Whyte, Joe Joyce, and Zhilei Zhang. Despite an 11th-round stoppage loss to Wardley, Higgins remains confident in Parker's ability to reclaim a world title.
Higgins believes that Parker's prime is yet to come, drawing parallels to Lennox Lewis, who also faced setbacks before achieving dominance in his 30s. Parker's current status as a free agent opens up various opportunities, with Higgins stating that they will consider all offers based on risk and return.
One intriguing prospect is a fight against the winner of the upcoming Daniel Dubois vs. Fabio Wardley rematch, which could provide Parker with a chance to settle some unfinished business. Additionally, Parker has expressed a desire for a rematch with Dillian Whyte, another potential bout that could be on the horizon.
Parker's return to the ring comes at a pivotal moment in his career, and with his manager's confidence and the potential for high-profile fights, the former champion is poised to make a strong comeback in the boxing world.
