The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a doping test carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round defeat against UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Stakes
The British boxer together with the New Zealander participated in an intense encounter staged in the UK capital in late October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger to unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker was previously the primary candidate to challenge Oleksandr Usyk after compiling an impressive six consecutive victories, yet risked his contender position on the line during the bout and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Plus Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on the boxer by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout returned positive and leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released an announcement declaring: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result following a drug screening administered on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements will be made currently."
Career Background
Parker was crowned world champion six years ago before he was defeated for his WBO belt via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Parker remained a frequent visitor on British soil from that point, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and transferring to Ireland for preparation with respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 to British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes which put him front of the queue to face the champion until he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has commenced.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker now faces a potential ban from the sport.
- His representatives released a comment acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review is now in progress about the situation.
