Joseph Parker tested positive during a drugs test administered the very day he fought in 11th-round defeat versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The British boxer along with Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating bout staged in the UK capital in late October to establish who would become next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been next in line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to putting together a notable six consecutive victories, however placed his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
An ordinary examination administered to the boxer via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match returned positive and leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued an announcement which read: "Vada alerted all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test administered on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements are planned for now."
Joseph Parker earned the title of world champion six years ago prior to he surrendered his championship belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
Parker remained an active participant on British soil after that, having eight matches in total in Britain and relocating to Ireland for training camps with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker recovered from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to achieve multiple wins positioning him front of the queue to meet the champion prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Following Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has commenced.
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