Former world heavyweight champion Joseph Parker is facing a potential suspension from boxing after testing positive for cocaine ahead of his bout with Fabio Wardley.
The 33-year-old New Zealander returned an adverse result in a Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) test conducted on 25 October, one day before the fight at London’s O2 Arena.
Sources confirmed the substance detected was recreational and not performance-enhancing.
Queensberry Promotions, Parker’s representatives, acknowledged the development, stating:
“Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding in relation to his bout with Fabio Wardley. While the matter is investigated further, no additional comment will be made.”
If found guilty, Parker could face a ban ranging from three months to two years, depending on mitigating factors. Although UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) and the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBC) would ordinarily issue any punishment.
UKAD did not administer this specific test and will conduct its own independent investigation.
The BBC has also reached out to both VADA and the BBBC for further comment.
Past disciplinary actions show varying outcomes. In 2019, boxer Liam Cameron received a four-year ban for testing positive for benzoylecgonine, a cocaine metabolite.
However, more recent cases, such as rugby league player Adam Rusling’s three-month suspension in 2024 for cocaine and MDMA, indicate more lenient sanctions under updated rules.
Parker, who reigned as WBO heavyweight champion from 2016 to 2018 before losing the title to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff, had hoped the Wardley fight would place him closer to a potential clash with undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk. Instead, he suffered a setback in the ring – and now faces a significant challenge outside it.
The situation remains under investigation, with further updates expected once the governing bodies complete their reviews.
