Former heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker is under investigation after traces of cocaine were detected in a routine drug test conducted by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA) on the day he lost to Britain’s Fabio Wardley in October.
The 33-year-old New Zealander, who had previously held the world title and was competing in some of the best form of his career, now faces the possibility of a suspension of up to two years. Parker had bounced back from a 2022 defeat to Joe Joyce with six consecutive victories, including wins over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang, while also securing the WBO Interim Championship.
Parker had been set to challenge IBF champion Daniel Dubois earlier this year, but the fight was canceled after Dubois fell ill. Opting to face Wardley instead put his status as WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk at risk .
Queensbury Promotions, led by Frank Warren, confirmed the findings, stating that VADA informed all relevant parties of the adverse result from the October 25 test and that no further comment would be issued while the investigation continues.
Parker’s UK manager, Spencer Brown, described the news as shocking and said the team is awaiting discussions with Parker, his promoter Frank Warren, and trainer David Higgins. “It is very early, and we will get to the bottom of it,” he added.
The British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) has also launched its own investigation into the case.
Boxing analyst Andy Scott highlighted the potential consequences: “This is a major development. Parker is a fan favourite and widely regarded as one of the top heavyweights. He took a high-risk fight against Wardley instead of waiting for Usyk, and now he not only has to deal with the loss but also this investigation.
“Looking at past cases, Liam Cameron received a four-year ban for traces of cocaine, though rules have since been revised. Parker could face up to a two-year suspension depending on the outcome of the investigation.”
