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The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample in a doping test administered the very day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.

The Fight Along with Its Implications

The British boxer and Joseph Parker were part of a thrilling contest in London last October to establish the identity of the next in line for the WBO facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.

Joseph Parker was previously next in line to meet the champion after compiling an impressive six consecutive victories, yet put his mandatory challenger status on the line in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.

Failed Examination Plus Implications

A routine test given to the boxer via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought showed an adverse result and leaves Parker with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.

The boxer's representatives released a statement declaring: "The agency alerted everyone involved about Parker had a positive result subsequent to a doping test carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are forthcoming for now."

Career Background

Parker became heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he lost his championship belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.

Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom from that point, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for preparation with esteemed mentor former champion Lee during this period.

Current Situation

Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer recovered from his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories positioning him at the front of the line to challenge the champion before he lost to the British fighter.

After Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway.

• The boxer returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
• The screening was administered by Vada the day of the bout.
• The fighter could receive disciplinary action from competition.
• His promotional team released a comment addressing the failed examination.
• A review is currently underway into the matter.