NZ boxer Parker promises ring return after doping ban 'lifted' / Photo: Fayez NURELDINE - AFP
Former world heavyweight champion Joseph Parker has insisted he will be back in action soon after saying Wednesday that UK Anti-Doping has lifted his suspension from boxing.
The New Zealander was suspended following a routine test by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association on the day of his shock loss to Fabio Wardley in October returned a positive result for cocaine.
"I'm pleased to confirm my provisional suspension is lifted and I'll be back in the ring soon," former WBO heavyweight champion Parker, 34, said in a statement.
"I've been advised to say no more for now while details are finalised."
UKAD have yet to comment in response to Parker's remarks.
Parker suffered an 11th-round stoppage defeat by British boxer Wardley and lost his status as WBO mandatory challenger to then undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
H.Goossens--LCdB