Joseph Parker set for boxing return as former heavyweight champion reveals doping ban has been lifted

Former heavyweight champion Joseph Parker has announced that he is edging closer to his boxing return after claiming the doping ban imposed upon him last year has been lifted.

The New Zealander, who held possession of the WBO belt before being beaten by Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in March 2018, has seen his career thrown into significant doubt after traces of an illegal substance were reportedly found in a voluntary anti-doping test last October.

The news came shortly after the Kiwi had suffered an 11th round knockout loss at the hands of Ipswich man Fabio Wardley - a defeat that culminated in the Ipswich man being upgraded to full WBO champion at Parker's expense.

The 34-year-old was at the time on the brink of a long sought after clash with undisputed king Oleksandr Usyk, before the Ukrainian opted to relinquish possession of his title to pursue more lucrative opportunities.

However, that loss, along with the subsequent suspension, derailed Parkers' bid to become a two time world champion, although it now appears as though he could still yet fulfill his ambitions of establishing himself as a blue-riband division ruler for a second time.

"I’m pleased to confirm my provisional suspension is lifted, and I’ll be back in the ring soon," Parker said on Wednesday via the BBC.

"I’ve been advised to say no more for now while details are finalised. Thank you to all my supporters."

Former interim WBO title-holder Parker has maintained his innocence since the Voluntary Anti-Doping Adency revealed details of the findings last year, vowing to fight 'tooth and nail' in a bid to clear his name.

The Kiwi has denied taking any wrongdoing, insisting that he "would never" use an illegal performance-enhancing drug.

Little has been publicly shared regarded the case, although it's been heavily speculated that traces of recreational drug cocaine were present within the findings, a substance that can lead to a multiple-year ban for a boxer.

It's expected that an official announcement regarding Parker's return to the sport will be made in the coming weeks.