New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Ban Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test

Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination conducted the very day he faced 11th-round loss to English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.

The Bout Plus the Consequences

The British boxer together with Joseph Parker engaged in a thrilling encounter staged in the UK capital on 25 October to establish who would become next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.

The fighter had been next in line to meet Usyk subsequent to stringing together a notable six wins in a row, but placed his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.

Failed Examination Along with Implications

An ordinary examination conducted on Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout returned positive which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.

His promotion team released a statement stating: "Vada alerted everyone involved about Parker returned an adverse finding after an anti-doping test conducted on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment are forthcoming at this time."

Professional History

Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion six years ago until he lost his championship belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.

Parker became an active participant on British soil since then, fighting eight times overall in the UK and relocating to Dublin for preparation with respected coach former champion Lee during this period.

Current Situation

Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker overcame the 2022 setback versus Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes that placed him front of the queue to face Usyk until he lost to the British fighter.

Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has commenced.

• Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
• The screening was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
• The fighter is confronting disciplinary action from the sport.
• His representatives has issued a comment addressing the failed examination.
• A review is currently ongoing about the situation.