New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Disqualification After Failed Drugs Test

The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample as part of a doping test administered on the day he fought in 11th-round defeat versus English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.

The Bout Plus the Stakes

Fabio Wardley and Parker participated in a thrilling encounter held in London last October to establish who would become next in line for the WBO facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.

Parker had been the primary candidate to meet Usyk following compiling an impressive six consecutive victories, but risked his contender position on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.

Positive Test Along with Potential Consequences

A standard screening given to Joseph Parker by the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to clear his name.

The boxer's representatives published a statement declaring: "Vada alerted all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are planned for now."

Boxing Journey

Joseph Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he was defeated for his WBO belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018.

Joseph Parker has been an active participant in the UK since then, competing in eight bouts in total in Britain and moving to Dublin for fight camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.

Current Situation

Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to chalk up multiple wins positioning him at the front of the line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk before he was defeated to Wardley.

After Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome is underway.

• The boxer returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
• The screening was administered through Vada on October 25th.
• The fighter now faces a potential ban from the sport.
• His promotional team has issued a comment confirming the positive test.
• A review has been underway into the matter.