🔗 Share this article Joseph Parker Faces Potential Ban After Failed Doping Test Joseph Parker produced a positive sample in a drugs test administered on the day of his 11th-round loss against UK boxer Fabio Wardley. The Fight Along with Its Implications Fabio Wardley together with Parker were part of a thrilling contest staged in the UK capital last October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk. Parker was previously the primary candidate to meet Oleksandr Usyk after stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, however risked his shot at the title at stake during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven. Positive Test and Implications A standard screening conducted on Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought came back positive and leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness. The boxer's representatives published a statement declaring: "The agency informed all required parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result following a drug screening administered on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are planned currently." Career Background Parker earned the title of world champion back in 2016 prior to he lost his championship belt by unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later. The fighter became an active participant on British soil from that point, having eight matches overall on UK territory and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation under esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years. Recent Developments Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes which put him as the top contender to face the champion until he lost to Wardley. Subsequent to the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings is underway. Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance. The test was administered via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout. The fighter is confronting a potential ban from boxing. His representatives released a statement addressing the failed examination. A formal inquiry is now underway about the situation.