đ Share this article Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Ban After Positive Doping Test The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination administered the very day he fought in 11th-round stoppage versus UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley. The Fight Plus the Consequences Fabio Wardley and Parker participated in an intense encounter held in London in late October to determine the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger against undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk. Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge Usyk subsequent to stringing together an impressive six-fight winning streak, however placed his mandatory challenger status on the line during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven. Adverse Finding and Possible Outcomes A routine test administered to the boxer by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match came back positive and leaves Parker with a battle to clear his name. The boxer's representatives released an announcement stating: "Vada informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result following an anti-doping test carried out on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no further statements will be made at this time." Boxing Journey Parker was crowned heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he surrendered his championship belt through a points decision against British star Joshua in Wales in 2018. The fighter has been a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom from that point, competing in eight bouts overall in the UK and relocating to Ireland for fight camps with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years. Current Situation Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to secure several successes that placed him at the front of the line to face Usyk before he was defeated to Wardley. Following Parker's sample showed an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome has been started. The boxer returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance. The examination took place by Vada the day of the bout. The fighter now faces disciplinary action from boxing. His promotional team has issued a comment confirming the positive test. A review has been in progress about the situation.