Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Ban After Failed Doping Test

The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a drugs test administered the same day he fought in 11th-round loss versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.

The Match Plus the Stakes

Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker were part of an intense bout staged in the UK capital in late October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.

Joseph Parker had positioned himself as next in line to meet Usyk subsequent to compiling a remarkable six wins in a row, yet risked his mandatory challenger status at stake during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.

Adverse Finding Plus Possible Outcomes

A routine test given to Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout came back positive and now leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to prove his innocence.

His promotion team issued a statement declaring: "The agency informed everyone involved about Parker had a positive result subsequent to an anti-doping test administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned at this time."

Boxing Journey

Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago prior to he was defeated for his championship belt by unanimous decision to British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.

The fighter became a regular competitor on British soil since then, competing in eight bouts in total on UK territory and moving to the Irish capital for training camps with respected coach former champion Lee over the past few years.

Current Situation

Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame the 2022 setback versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories that placed him at the front of the line to meet Usyk until he was defeated to the British fighter.

Following Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results is underway.

• Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
• The screening took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
• Parker now faces a potential ban from the sport.
• Queensberry released an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding.
• A review is now in progress about the situation.