🔗 Share this article Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Ban After Failed Drugs Test The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination administered on the day of his 11th-round loss versus UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley. The Bout Plus the Stakes The British boxer along with Joseph Parker participated in a thrilling bout in London on 25 October to determine the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk. Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to face Usyk after stringing together an impressive six-fight winning streak, yet risked his shot at the title in jeopardy during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven. Positive Test Plus Implications A routine test conducted on the boxer via the anti-doping organization the day he fought came back positive and leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness. His promotion team published a statement which read: "The anti-doping body alerted everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a drug screening administered on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements will be made currently." Career Background Parker became heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he surrendered the WBO title by unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later. Joseph Parker remained a regular competitor in the UK from that point, having eight matches in total in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for preparation alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years. Recent Developments Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories that placed him front of the queue to challenge Oleksandr Usyk until he was defeated to Wardley. Following Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has commenced. Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance. The examination was administered by Vada on October 25th. Joseph Parker now faces disciplinary action from boxing. Queensberry has issued a statement addressing the failed examination. An investigation is currently underway into the matter.