🔗 Share this article Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Disqualification Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding during a drugs test administered the same day he fought in 11th-round defeat against UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley. The Fight and Its Implications The British boxer together with the New Zealander were part of an intense bout in London on 25 October to establish the next mandatory WBO contender facing unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk. The fighter had positioned himself as the primary candidate to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following stringing together a notable six consecutive victories, however placed his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy during the bout and endured an 11th-round stoppage. Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes An ordinary examination given to Parker by the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout showed an adverse result which leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to clear his name. Parker's promotional company issued an announcement declaring: "Vada informed all relevant parties about Parker had a positive result after a doping test conducted on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are forthcoming at this time." Career Background The New Zealand boxer was crowned titleholder in 2016 until he surrendered his WBO belt via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later. Parker became a frequent visitor in the UK since then, fighting eight times in total on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years. Latest Events Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 against British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins positioning him as the top contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk until he lost to the British fighter. Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway. Parker tested positive for an illegal substance. The examination was conducted through Vada on the fight day. Parker is confronting a potential ban from the sport. Queensberry released a comment acknowledging the failed examination. An investigation has been underway regarding the case.