Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Potential Suspension Due to Positive Doping Test

The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a anti-doping examination carried out the same day of his 11th-round loss to English fighter Fabio Wardley.

The Fight and Its Consequences

Wardley along with Joseph Parker engaged in a thrilling contest in London on 25 October to determine the identity of the mandatory WBO contender against reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.

Parker had positioned himself as next in line to face Usyk following stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, yet put his shot at the title at stake in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.

Adverse Finding Plus Implications

An ordinary examination administered to Parker via Vada the day he fought returned positive and leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.

Parker's promotional company released a statement stating: "Vada alerted everyone involved about Parker had a positive result following a doping test administered on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no further statements will be made currently."

Professional History

Joseph Parker earned the title of world champion in 2016 before he was defeated for his championship belt through a points decision to British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.

The fighter remained a frequent visitor in the UK since then, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation with respected coach former champion Lee during this period.

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Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to achieve several successes positioning him front of the queue to challenge Usyk before he was defeated to the British fighter.

Following Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.

• Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
• The examination took place by Vada on the fight day.
• The fighter now faces a possible suspension from boxing.
• His representatives published a comment acknowledging the failed examination.
• An investigation has been underway about the situation.