🔗 Share this article New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Disqualification Due to Failed Doping Test Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a drugs test carried out the very day he faced 11th-round defeat against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley. The Fight Along with Its Stakes Wardley along with Parker participated in a thrilling bout in London in late October to decide who would become mandatory WBO contender against undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk. The fighter was previously next in line to meet the champion subsequent to stringing together a notable six wins in a row, but risked his contender position in jeopardy in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven. Failed Examination Plus Possible Outcomes A routine test administered to Parker by the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout returned positive and now leaves Parker facing a challenge to prove his innocence. His promotion team released an announcement stating: "Vada informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made for now." Career Background The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion back in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his WBO belt by unanimous decision to British star Joshua in Wales two years later. Parker remained a frequent visitor on British soil from that point, fighting eight times overall in the UK and transferring to Dublin for fight camps alongside respected coach Andy Lee in recent years. Latest Events Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to chalk up multiple wins positioning him as the top contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he lost against Wardley. Following the boxer produced an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started. The boxer failed a drug test for a prohibited substance. The screening was conducted via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout. Joseph Parker could receive a potential ban from competition. His representatives released a statement acknowledging the failed examination. A review is currently in progress about the situation.