đź”— Share this article New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Suspension Due to Positive Drugs Test The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a drugs test conducted the same day he faced 11th-round defeat to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley. The Bout Plus the Consequences The British boxer and Parker engaged in a pulsating contest held in London on 25 October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk. Joseph Parker had been next in line to meet Usyk after stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, but put his shot at the title at stake during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat. Adverse Finding and Potential Consequences A routine test administered to the boxer through the anti-doping organization the day he fought showed an adverse result which leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to clear his name. His promotion team issued a statement stating: "The anti-doping body informed everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a doping test conducted on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are planned at this time." Professional History Joseph Parker was crowned heavyweight champion back in 2016 before he lost the WBO title via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later. Parker remained a regular competitor across the United Kingdom from that point, fighting eight times overall in the UK and transferring to Dublin for preparation alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years. Current Situation Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker overcame the 2022 setback versus Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins positioning him as the top contender to face Usyk prior to he was defeated to the British fighter. Following the boxer produced a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has been started. Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance. The test took place via the anti-doping agency on the fight day. Joseph Parker could receive a possible suspension from the sport. Queensberry has issued an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding. A review has been underway into the matter.