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Joseph Parker faces potential ban after positive cocaine test
Former heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker could be suspended from boxing after testing positive for cocaine, according to sources confirmed by BBC Sport. The 33-year-old New Zealander failed a drug test administered by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (Vada) on 25 October-one day before his bout with Britain's Fabio Wardley.
Test details and official response
The test revealed traces of a recreational substance, not a performance-enhancing drug, sources confirmed. Parker's promoter, Queensberry Promotions, acknowledged the "adverse finding" in a statement but declined further comment while the investigation continues.
UK Anti-Doping (Ukad) and the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBC) will determine any potential ban, which could range from three months to two years. Ukad, however, was not involved in the original test and must conduct its own review.
Reactions and precedents
Spencer Brown, Parker's UK manager, told Reuters the team was "in total shock" and vowed to "get to the bottom of it." The outcome may hinge on recent rule changes: boxer Liam Cameron received a four-year ban in 2019 for a similar offense, while rugby league player Adam Rusling was suspended for just three months in 2024 for cocaine and MDMA use.
Career implications
Parker, who held the heavyweight title from 2016 to 2018 before losing to Anthony Joshua, had aimed to position himself for a fight against undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk. His defeat by Wardley at London's O2 Arena on 26 October now overshadows his future plans.
Next steps
The BBBC and Ukad have yet to issue formal statements. Vada and the BBBC did not immediately respond to BBC requests for comment.
