The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a doping test conducted on the day of his 11th-round stoppage versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
Wardley along with the New Zealander participated in a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital on 25 October to decide the next next in line for the WBO to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the leading contender to meet the champion following compiling a notable six consecutive victories, however put his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
An ordinary examination given to the boxer via the anti-doping organization the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves Parker facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company released a communique which read: "Vada alerted all required parties about Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening conducted on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements are planned for now."
Joseph Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he lost his championship belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom after that, having eight matches altogether in Britain and relocating to Ireland for training camps under respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer recovered from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories that placed him as the top contender to challenge Usyk prior to he was defeated to Wardley.
Following the boxer produced a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome is underway.
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Bonnie Nichols
Bonnie Nichols
Bonnie Nichols
Bonnie Nichols