🔗 Share this article New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Ban After Failed Doping Test Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample as part of a drugs test carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage versus English fighter Fabio Wardley. The Bout Along with Its Consequences The British boxer together with Parker were part of a thrilling encounter held in London in late October to determine the identity of the mandatory WBO contender against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk. The fighter had positioned himself as the primary candidate to face Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to putting together a remarkable six consecutive victories, but put his shot at the title at stake during the bout and experienced an 11th-round defeat. Failed Examination Plus Potential Consequences An ordinary examination given to Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout returned positive and leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to prove his innocence. Parker's promotional company issued an announcement which read: "The anti-doping body alerted everyone involved that Joseph Parker had a positive result after a drug screening administered on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are forthcoming at this time." Career Background Parker became titleholder six years ago before he surrendered the WBO title through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later. Parker remained an active participant on British soil after that, competing in eight bouts overall on UK territory and transferring to Ireland for preparation with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years. Recent Developments Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer bounced back from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him at the front of the line to meet Oleksandr Usyk prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley. Following Parker's sample showed a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has commenced. The boxer failed a drug test for an illegal substance. The examination was administered by Vada on October 25th. Parker could receive disciplinary action from boxing. Queensberry released an announcement acknowledging the positive test. A formal inquiry is currently in progress regarding the case.