🔗 Share this article

The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a doping test carried out the same day of his 11th-round loss against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.

The Bout and Its Implications

Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling encounter staged in the UK capital on 25 October to decide the identity of the next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.

Parker was previously the leading contender to meet Usyk following putting together an impressive six consecutive victories, but put his contender position on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.

Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes

A routine test given to Joseph Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.

Parker's promotional company published a statement which read: "Vada notified all relevant parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test carried out on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments will be made for now."

Career Background

Parker earned the title of titleholder in 2016 until he was defeated for his WBO belt through a points decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff two years later.

Parker has been an active participant in the UK after that, fighting eight times altogether on UK territory and transferring to the Irish capital for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.

Current Situation

Guided by Lee, the boxer bounced back from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to achieve several successes positioning him as the top contender to meet Usyk until he lost against Wardley.

Following Parker's sample showed a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.

• The boxer failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
• The examination took place via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
• Joseph Parker is confronting a possible suspension from boxing.
• His representatives released a comment addressing the adverse finding.
• A review has been in progress into the matter.