🔗 Share this article New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Ban After Positive Doping Test Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding during a doping test administered the very day of his 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley. The Bout and Its Implications Fabio Wardley and Parker were part of a thrilling contest in London in late October to establish who would become mandatory WBO contender to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk. Joseph Parker had been the leading contender to challenge Usyk subsequent to compiling a notable six consecutive victories, but risked his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven. Failed Examination Plus Possible Outcomes A routine test given to Joseph Parker through Vada on the day of the bout returned positive and leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness. His promotion team released a statement which read: "Vada informed all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening conducted on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments will be made for now." Career Background The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion back in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018. Parker became a frequent visitor on British soil since then, fighting eight times altogether in the UK and transferring to Ireland for training camps with highly regarded trainer former champion Lee over the past few years. Current Situation Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories that placed him as the top contender to face the champion before he lost to the British fighter. Following the boxer produced a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started. Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance. The examination was administered through Vada on October 25th. Joseph Parker now faces a possible suspension from the sport. His promotional team published a statement confirming the adverse finding. A formal inquiry has been ongoing regarding the case.