Cocaine Controversy: Joseph Parker Blames Nutritionist for Failed Drug Test!
Former world heavyweight champion Joseph Parker received a three-month ban after a positive cocaine test following his fight with Fabio Wardley. British anti-doping authorities accepted Parker's explanation that the substance was ingested out-of-competition through food contaminated by his nutritionist. Parker has accepted the ruling and is now free to return to the ring.Former world heavyweight boxing champion Joseph Parker recently faced a three-month ban from British anti-doping authorities following a positive drug test for cocaine. The incident occurred after his October 25 bout against Fabio Wardley at the O2 Arena in London, a fight Parker ultimately lost. Urine tests overseen by UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) revealed traces of cocaine in his system, leading to a provisional suspension that began in late November.
Parker, a 34-year-old New Zealander, argued to investigators that he did not knowingly or intentionally use cocaine. His explanation centered on his exposure to the substance through a nutritionist he employed in preparation for the bout. UKAD's decision detailed that Parker provided a written statement from the nutritionist, who admitted to being a regular user of cocaine and to daily use between October 17 and 24, 2025. The nutritionist stated that his cocaine use took place in his hotel room, where he also prepared meals and drinks for Parker to consume.
An independent scientific expert consulted by UKAD concluded that Parker's administration of cocaine occurred out-of-competition, meaning it was not on the day of the competition. The expert further opined that the cocaine may have been orally administered from food contaminated by the nutritionist. Crucially, UKAD accepted this explanation, noting that "any ingestion of cocaine by Mr. Parker occurred out-of-competition only and in a context unrelated to sport performance," as cocaine is only prohibited during competition.
In June, UKAD confirmed its satisfaction with the expert's opinion, leading to the lifting of the provisional ban and the imposition of a three-month ban, which was deemed served due to the period of his suspension since late November. Parker accepted the ruling on July 28 and has since announced on social media that he will be "back in the ring soon." Parker's notable career achievements include winning the vacant WBO title in December 2016 by defeating Andy Ruiz Jr. via majority decision, a title he later lost to Anthony Joshua in March 2018.