Joseph Parker, New Zealand’s former WBO interim heavyweight champion, is facing a possible boxing suspension after a pre-fight drug test returned positive for cocaine. The sample was collected by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA) on October 25, the same day Parker fought Fabio Wardley at London’s O2 Arena.
Traces of the cocaine metabolite benzoylecgonine were detected. This substance can remain in the system for approximately four days, suggesting exposure occurred during fight week.
Parker’s promoter David Higgins and VADA have been contacted for comment. Parker is currently on holiday and has not responded publicly.
‼️ Joseph Parker reportedly tested positive for cocaine in a VADA drugs test taken on the day of his defeat to Fabio Wardley.
Two sources close to Team Parker have conveyed their dismay to The Ring at the findings, for which he has an opportunity to have his B-sample tested. pic.twitter.com/Mkqd70rlQg
— Ring Magazine (@ringmagazine) November 14, 2025
B-Sample And Regulatory Process
Parker can request his B-sample be tested, though historically these results match the A-sample. The Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency findings will be reviewed by UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) and the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC).
Cocaine, classified as a recreational drug rather than performance-enhancing, could result in a maximum two-year suspension. If Parker proves no negligence or intent, the ban could be reduced to a shorter period.
The 33-year-old has a distinguished career, facing top heavyweights including Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, and Dillian Whyte. Parker lost to Joshua and Whyte in 2018 but defeated Wilder in 2023.
Parker captured the WBO interim heavyweight title in 2024 by defeating Zhilei Zhang, recovering from two knockdowns to secure the decision. He was scheduled to fight then-IBF champion Daniel Dubois in February 2025, but Dubois withdrew due to illness. Parker instead defended his interim title against Martin Bakole, stopping him in two rounds.
Parker entered the Wardley fight as a favorite but was stopped in the 11th round. The result caused some controversy, as many believed the referee ended the bout prematurely, and Parker was leading on points at the time.
Prior to Wardley, Parker was positioned as a leading contender to face undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk in 2026. His loss now complicates that trajectory.
Statement From Promotions
Queensberry Promotions, led by Frank Warren, released a brief statement regarding the failed test:
“The Voluntary Anti-Doping Association [VADA] last night informed all required parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test conducted on October 25 in relation to his bout with Fabio Wardley. While the matter is investigated further, no additional comment will be made at this time.”
Parker’s positive test comes amid a period of resurgence. After a 2022 loss to Joe Joyce, he won six consecutive bouts, including victories over Wilder, Zhang, and Bakole, re-establishing himself as a top contender.
With Usyk recovering from injury and Wardley now emerging as a leading contender, Parker’s suspension could delay his return to title contention. Despite this setback, Parker has indicated he intends to continue competing once eligible, leaving the door open for potential high-profile matchups in the heavyweight division.
