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Joseph Parker tested positive during a doping test conducted the very day of his 11th-round stoppage versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.

The Bout Plus the Consequences

Wardley along with the New Zealander participated in a pulsating encounter held in London last October to establish the next mandatory WBO contender facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.

Joseph Parker was previously the primary candidate to face Usyk after putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, but placed his mandatory challenger status at stake during the bout and endured an 11th-round defeat.

Adverse Finding Along with Potential Consequences

A routine test conducted on the boxer by the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout showed an adverse result which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.

Parker's promotional company published an announcement stating: "The agency informed all required parties about Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are forthcoming currently."

Boxing Journey

Joseph Parker became heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he surrendered his WBO belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.

Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom after that, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and relocating to Ireland for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.

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Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to secure several successes that placed him at the front of the line to face the champion before he lost against Wardley.

After the boxer produced a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings has been started.

• Joseph Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
• The test took place via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
• Parker now faces disciplinary action from boxing.
• Queensberry released a statement addressing the positive test.
• A review is currently underway regarding the case.