🔗 Share this article New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Disqualification After Failed Drugs Test Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample during a doping test carried out on the day he fought in 11th-round defeat against UK boxer Fabio Wardley. The Fight Along with Its Consequences The British boxer together with Parker engaged in an intense contest held in London in late October to decide the identity of the next in line for the WBO to unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk. Parker had been the leading contender to meet the champion after compiling an impressive six-fight winning streak, yet placed his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in London and suffered an 11th-round defeat. Adverse Finding Along with Implications An ordinary examination given to Joseph Parker via Vada the day of the match showed an adverse result which leaves Parker facing a challenge to prove his innocence. Parker's promotional company published an announcement which read: "The agency notified all relevant parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a drug screening carried out on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment are forthcoming at this time." Career Background The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion six years ago until he was defeated for the WBO title via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018. Joseph Parker became a regular competitor in the UK from that point, competing in eight bouts overall on UK territory and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation under respected coach Andy Lee in recent years. Latest Events Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him at the front of the line to face Usyk until he suffered defeat to the British fighter. Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has been started. Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance. The examination was administered through Vada on the fight day. The fighter now faces a possible suspension from the sport. His promotional team released a statement addressing the failed examination. A review has been underway into the matter.