🔗 Share this article Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Suspension After Failed Anti-Doping Test Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding in a drugs test carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round loss versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley. The Bout and Its Implications Fabio Wardley along with the New Zealander participated in a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital last October to determine the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk. Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to meet Usyk after compiling a notable six-fight winning streak, yet put his shot at the title on the line during the bout and experienced a stoppage in round eleven. Adverse Finding and Implications A standard screening conducted on Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout came back positive and now leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to clear his name. The boxer's representatives issued an announcement which read: "Vada notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned at this time." Boxing Journey The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion six years ago until he surrendered his championship belt via unanimous decision versus British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later. The fighter has been a regular competitor in the UK after that, having eight matches overall in Britain and moving to the Irish capital for training camps under respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years. Recent Developments Guided by Lee, the boxer overcame his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him at the front of the line to meet Usyk before he suffered defeat against Wardley. Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway. Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance. The examination took place by Vada on October 25th. Joseph Parker is confronting a possible suspension from the sport. His promotional team has issued a statement confirming the failed examination. A formal inquiry has been in progress into the matter.