đ Share this article Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Suspension Following Failed Drugs Test The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a drugs test conducted the same day he fought in 11th-round loss versus English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley. The Match Along with Its Consequences Fabio Wardley and Parker participated in a thrilling bout held in London in late October to establish the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk. Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to face Usyk following compiling a notable six-fight winning streak, yet put his mandatory challenger status at stake during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat. Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes A routine test administered to the boxer via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout came back positive which leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence. The boxer's representatives issued an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body alerted all relevant parties that Joseph Parker tested positive after a doping test administered on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no more comments are forthcoming currently." Career Background Joseph Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he lost the WBO title via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later. The fighter became a regular competitor in the UK from that point, having eight matches overall in Britain and relocating to Ireland for fight camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period. Recent Developments Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes that placed him as the top contender to face the champion prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley. Following Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has been started. The boxer failed a drug test for an illegal substance. The examination was administered via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout. Joseph Parker is confronting disciplinary action from boxing. His representatives published a statement addressing the positive test. A formal inquiry is currently in progress into the matter.