New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Disqualification Following Failed Anti-Doping Test

Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample as part of a drugs test carried out on the day he fought in 11th-round stoppage to English fighter Fabio Wardley.

The Bout and Its Consequences

Fabio Wardley together with Parker were part of a thrilling contest in London last October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.

The fighter had positioned himself as the primary candidate to face Usyk subsequent to stringing together an impressive six consecutive victories, however risked his shot at the title at stake in the UK and endured an 11th-round defeat.

Positive Test Plus Implications

A standard screening conducted on Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to clear his name.

Parker's promotional company published a statement which read: "Vada alerted everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following a drug screening carried out on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are forthcoming at this time."

Career Background

The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion back in 2016 before he lost his championship belt by unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.

Joseph Parker has been a regular competitor across the United Kingdom since then, having eight matches overall in Britain and moving to Dublin for preparation with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.

Current Situation

Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk before he lost against Wardley.

After Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.

• Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
• The test took place through Vada on the fight day.
• Parker is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
• His representatives published an announcement acknowledging the positive test.
• A review has been in progress into the matter.