🔗 Share this article Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Ban After Failed Anti-Doping Test The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample in a anti-doping examination carried out the same day he faced 11th-round defeat versus English fighter Fabio Wardley. The Fight and Its Implications Wardley together with the New Zealander participated in a pulsating encounter held in London last October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk. The fighter had been the leading contender to face Usyk following stringing together a remarkable six consecutive victories, but placed his mandatory challenger status at stake in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven. Positive Test Plus Potential Consequences A standard screening given to the boxer via the anti-doping organization the day of the match came back positive and leaves Parker with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness. Parker's promotional company released a statement stating: "The anti-doping body informed all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result after an anti-doping test carried out on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are planned currently." Career Background Parker became titleholder in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his WBO belt by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later. Joseph Parker became a regular competitor on British soil since then, fighting eight times in total in the UK and moving to Dublin for training camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period. Recent Developments Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins which put him at the front of the line to meet the champion before he suffered defeat to the British fighter. After Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation into the findings has commenced. Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance. The test took place through Vada on the fight day. The fighter is confronting disciplinary action from boxing. His representatives has issued a statement addressing the failed examination. A formal inquiry is now ongoing regarding the case.