Former WBO heavyweight champion Joseph Parker has firmly denied taking “any prohibited substance” after a VADA drug test from the day of his October fight against Fabio Wardley returned an adverse finding.
Parker addressed the situation directly on Instagram, saying the news came as “a real surprise” and insisting he does not use performance-enhancing drugs. “I did not take any prohibited substance,” he wrote. “I am cooperating fully with the process now underway, and I am confident the investigation will clear my name.” He also thanked supporters for their messages, promising to speak openly once the review is complete.
Watch Parker vs. Wardley highlights.
The adverse finding arrives at a crucial point in Parker’s career. He had earned mandatory challenger status to undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk after a six-fight winning streak, only to risk that position against Wardley in London on 25 October. Parker suffered an 11th-round stoppage in a thrilling bout at the O2 Arena, and with the failed test now in play, it may prove to be his final appearance for some time.
Parker’s promotional team, Queensberry, confirmed the VADA notification in a statement, noting that “all required parties” had been informed and that no further comment would be made while the matter is under investigation. VADA’s findings relate specifically to the sample collected on the day of the Wardley fight.
Image Credit: The Ring