đź”— Share this article New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Disqualification Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample in a drugs test conducted the very day of his 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley. The Bout Along with Its Implications Wardley together with Parker engaged in a thrilling contest in London last October to decide the next next in line for the WBO to unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk. Parker had been the primary candidate to face Oleksandr Usyk following compiling a remarkable six wins in a row, however put his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and endured an 11th-round stoppage. Failed Examination Plus Possible Outcomes A routine test conducted on the boxer by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness. His promotion team issued a statement stating: "The agency alerted all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive following a drug screening administered on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made for now." Career Background Parker became world champion in 2016 before he surrendered his WBO belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later. The fighter has been a frequent visitor on British soil from that point, having eight matches overall on UK territory and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside respected coach Andy Lee during this period. Current Situation Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins that placed him at the front of the line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk before he suffered defeat to the British fighter. Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway. Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance. The screening was administered by Vada on October 25th. The fighter is confronting a possible suspension from competition. His representatives published an announcement acknowledging the positive test. An investigation is currently in progress about the situation.