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The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample in a anti-doping examination administered the same day he faced 11th-round loss versus English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.

The Bout Along with Its Stakes

Fabio Wardley together with Parker were part of a thrilling bout staged in the UK capital in late October to determine the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger against undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.

Parker was previously the leading contender to challenge Usyk following stringing together a notable six wins in a row, but put his contender position at stake in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.

Adverse Finding Plus Implications

An ordinary examination given to Parker by Vada on the day of the bout came back positive and now leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to prove his innocence.

His promotion team published an announcement declaring: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a drug screening administered on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment are forthcoming for now."

Career Background

Parker became world champion back in 2016 until he was defeated for the WBO title via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.

The fighter has been an active participant on British soil since then, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and transferring to Dublin for preparation alongside respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.

Current Situation

Guided by Lee, the boxer overcame the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to secure several successes which put him front of the queue to challenge the champion until he was defeated against Wardley.

Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has commenced.

• Joseph Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
• The examination was conducted through Vada on October 25th.
• The fighter now faces a potential ban from competition.
• His representatives published an announcement confirming the failed examination.
• An investigation is now in progress regarding the case.