🔗 Share this article Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Disqualification Following Positive Doping Test Former world champion Parker tested positive in a anti-doping examination conducted on the day he fought in 11th-round loss versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley. The Bout Along with Its Consequences Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker participated in an intense contest in London in late October to determine the next mandatory WBO contender facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk. Parker was previously the primary candidate to challenge the champion following stringing together an impressive six wins in a row, yet put his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and suffered an 11th-round stoppage. Adverse Finding Plus Potential Consequences A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker by Vada on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to clear his name. Parker's promotional company issued an announcement declaring: "Vada alerted all required parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening carried out on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no more comments will be made at this time." Career Background The New Zealand boxer was crowned heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he surrendered his championship belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018. The fighter remained an active participant across the United Kingdom from that point, fighting eight times in total in Britain and relocating to Dublin for training camps alongside esteemed mentor former champion Lee over the past few years. Latest Events Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer bounced back from his 2022 loss versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up several successes positioning him at the front of the line to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he lost to Wardley. Following the boxer produced a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has commenced. Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance. The examination took place through Vada on the fight day. Joseph Parker now faces a possible suspension from the sport. His promotional team released a comment acknowledging the failed examination. An investigation has been in progress about the situation.