🔗 Share this article New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Suspension Following Positive Anti-Doping Test The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a drugs test administered on the day he faced 11th-round stoppage against English fighter Fabio Wardley. The Fight Along with Its Stakes Fabio Wardley together with Joseph Parker engaged in a thrilling bout staged in the UK capital in late October to decide the next mandatory WBO contender facing reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk. The fighter was previously the primary candidate to meet Usyk after stringing together an impressive six wins in a row, however risked his shot at the title in jeopardy in London and suffered a stoppage in round eleven. Failed Examination Plus Potential Consequences A routine test administered to the boxer by Vada on the day of the bout showed an adverse result which leaves Parker in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness. The boxer's representatives issued a communique stating: "Vada informed all required parties about Parker had a positive result following a drug screening administered on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no further statements will be made currently." Boxing Journey The New Zealand boxer became titleholder in 2016 until he surrendered his WBO belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018. Parker has been a regular competitor across the United Kingdom from that point, having eight matches in total in Britain and moving to Dublin for training camps alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years. Latest Events Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes positioning him at the front of the line to challenge the champion before he suffered defeat against Wardley. Following Parker's sample showed a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has commenced. Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance. The test was conducted by Vada the day of the bout. Parker is confronting disciplinary action from competition. His promotional team has issued an announcement acknowledging the failed examination. A review has been ongoing about the situation.