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The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a doping test conducted on the day he faced 11th-round stoppage against English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.

The Match Plus the Stakes

Wardley and the New Zealander participated in a thrilling encounter staged in the UK capital in late October to decide who would become WBO mandatory challenger against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.

Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following compiling a remarkable six-fight winning streak, yet put his contender position in jeopardy in the UK and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.

Positive Test Along with Implications

A routine test given to Parker by Vada on the day of the bout came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.

Parker's promotional company issued an announcement stating: "Vada alerted all relevant parties about Parker had a positive result subsequent to an anti-doping test conducted on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements are planned for now."

Career Background

Joseph Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.

The fighter became a frequent visitor in the UK after that, fighting eight times in total on UK territory and transferring to Ireland for training camps under highly regarded trainer former champion Lee during this period.

Current Situation

Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker overcame the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes which put him front of the queue to challenge Oleksandr Usyk prior to he lost to Wardley.

Following Parker's sample showed a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation regarding the results is underway.

• The boxer returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
• The screening took place through Vada the day of the bout.
• The fighter now faces disciplinary action from the sport.
• Queensberry published a statement addressing the positive test.
• An investigation has been ongoing about the situation.