Parker to Return Against Clarke on Potential Fury-Joshua Undercard

What Happened

Joseph Parker will return to the ring against England’s Frazer Clarke. The bout could appear on the undercard of the heavyweight title clash between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua in Cardiff on 11 December. Parker, 34, has not fought since his October loss to Fabio Wardley, a defeat that ended his run as a top contender. After that loss a routine drug test detected a metabolite of cocaine; he received a provisional suspension but was cleared to compete again in August after the investigation closed.

Fighter Profiles

Boxing News 24 says Clarke, 35, has taken part in 14 professional fights, winning ten of them, eight by knockout, giving him a 57 % knockout rate. Clarke has agreed to face Parker in what could be his first high‑profile appearance on a world‑title undercard. Parker holds a record of 36 wins, three losses and one draw from 40 bouts and captured the WBO heavyweight belt in 2016, defending it twice before losing it in 2018. His career includes victories over former champions and a reputation for technical skill and power.

What's Next

Promoters aim to finalise the contract within weeks so the fight can be listed on the official undercard. If confirmed, the match will be staged at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, sharing the live audience and TV broadcast of the Fury‑Joshua main event. The bout will also affect the WBA Super Heavyweight rankings as both men aim to climb the list. Both fighters will use the platform to boost their rankings and secure future title opportunities.

Context

Undercard fights are used by promoters to showcase returning or rising boxers before a marquee title bout. Parker’s comeback follows a year‑long hiatus and a cleared drug suspension, making this his first fight back at a major venue. Boxing authorities routinely test fighters and a cleared result allows a boxer to resume competition without penalty.