🔗 Share this article New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Suspension After Positive Doping Test Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding during a drugs test administered on the day he fought in 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Fabio Wardley. The Match Plus the Implications Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander were part of a thrilling bout in London last October to establish who would become next in line for the WBO against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk. Joseph Parker was previously the primary candidate to meet the champion following stringing together a remarkable six wins in a row, yet risked his mandatory challenger status at stake in London and endured an 11th-round defeat. Failed Examination Plus Potential Consequences A routine test administered to Joseph Parker through the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout came back positive and leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to clear his name. The boxer's representatives released a communique which read: "The agency notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result following an anti-doping test administered on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements will be made currently." Boxing Journey The New Zealand boxer became world champion back in 2016 prior to he lost his WBO belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018. The fighter remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts in total in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period. Current Situation Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins which put him as the top contender to face the champion prior to he was defeated against Wardley. Following Parker returned a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings has been started. The boxer returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance. The screening was administered via the anti-doping agency on October 25th. Parker could receive disciplinary action from the sport. His promotional team has issued a statement addressing the adverse finding. A review has been in progress into the matter.