🔗 Share this article

Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding in a drugs test carried out the very day he fought in 11th-round loss against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.

The Fight and Its Consequences

The British boxer and Parker were part of an intense bout in London in late October to determine the next mandatory WBO contender against unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.

Joseph Parker had been the leading contender to face Oleksandr Usyk following putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, yet placed his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in the UK and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.

Positive Test and Implications

A standard screening conducted on the boxer by Vada the day of the match returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to prove his innocence.

The boxer's representatives released a statement declaring: "The anti-doping body alerted all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result subsequent to a drug screening administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are planned at this time."

Career Background

Parker became titleholder six years ago until he lost his WBO belt by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.

Parker has been an active participant on British soil since then, having eight matches in total on UK territory and relocating to Dublin for preparation under respected coach former champion Lee over the past few years.

Current Situation

Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from the 2022 setback to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins which put him front of the queue to challenge Usyk prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley.

Following the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway.

• The boxer failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
• The test was conducted by Vada the day of the bout.
• Joseph Parker now faces a potential ban from competition.
• Queensberry released a statement confirming the adverse finding.
• A formal inquiry has been underway into the matter.