Joseph Parker Faces Possible Ban After Testing Positive for Cocaine
Former world heavyweight champion Joseph Parker is facing the possibility of a ban from boxing after testing positive for cocaine.
The 33-year-old New Zealander returned a positive result in a Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) test carried out on 25 October, a day before his fight against Briton Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena. The test showed the presence of a recreational substance and not a performance-enhancing drug.
Parker’s promoters, Queensberry Promotions, confirmed the failed test and said the matter is now under investigation. They added that no further comments will be made until the process is complete.
The heavyweight star could receive a suspension ranging from three months to two years, depending on the outcome of the investigation and the circumstances surrounding the case. Any punishment would be issued by UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) and the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBC).
However, because UKAD did not administer the original test, the organisation will have to carry out its own inquiry before taking any action.
The situation comes as a major setback for Parker, who was hoping to position himself for a future world title fight against undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk. Instead, he suffered a surprise defeat to Wardley in their October bout.
Parker held the WBO heavyweight title between 2016 and 2018 before losing it to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff. His latest setback now raises serious questions about the next chapter of his career.
