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The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a anti-doping examination conducted on the day of his 11th-round defeat versus English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.

The Bout Plus the Consequences

Wardley along with Parker were part of a thrilling encounter held in London in late October to decide the next WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.

Joseph Parker had been the primary candidate to challenge Usyk following putting together a remarkable six wins in a row, but put his shot at the title in jeopardy during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.

Positive Test Plus Potential Consequences

A routine test administered to the boxer through the anti-doping organization the day of the match came back positive and now leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to prove his innocence.

The boxer's representatives published a communique which read: "The anti-doping body alerted all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive following a drug screening administered on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made for now."

Professional History

Joseph Parker became world champion in 2016 before he surrendered his championship belt via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.

Joseph Parker became a frequent visitor on British soil from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for fight camps under esteemed mentor former champion Lee over the past few years.

Current Situation

Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer recovered from his 2022 loss versus British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley.

After Parker returned a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe regarding the results has been started.

• The boxer tested positive for an illegal substance.
• The test was administered via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
• The fighter could receive a possible suspension from boxing.
• Queensberry published a comment addressing the positive test.
• An investigation is now in progress into the matter.