🔗 Share this article Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Ban Following Failed Drugs Test Former world champion Parker tested positive during a drugs test administered the same day he fought in 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley. The Match Plus the Implications Fabio Wardley together with Parker were part of a thrilling encounter in London on 25 October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk. The fighter had been the leading contender to meet the champion subsequent to stringing together an impressive six wins in a row, yet put his shot at the title in jeopardy in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven. Positive Test Plus Possible Outcomes A standard screening administered to the boxer via the anti-doping organization the day of the match came back positive and now leaves Parker with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness. His promotion team published an announcement declaring: "Vada notified all relevant parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a doping test administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are planned for now." Career Background Joseph Parker became world champion in 2016 until he was defeated for his championship belt through a points decision against British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later. Joseph Parker became a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom from that point, fighting eight times altogether in Britain and transferring to Dublin for fight camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years. Latest Events Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him at the front of the line to challenge the champion before he was defeated to Wardley. Following Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results is underway. Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance. The test took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout. Parker could receive disciplinary action from boxing. Queensberry released an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding. An investigation is currently underway into the matter.