Former HW boxing champ Joseph Parker faces possible ban after testing positive for cocaine

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Former world heavyweight champion Joseph Parker is facing a possible ban from boxing after testing positive for cocaine.

The 33-year-old New Zealander failed a drugs test before his fight with Fabio Wardley on 26 October.

He was tested by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (Vada) on 25 October.

Sources have confirmed to BBC Sport Parker tested positive for the recreational drug and not performance enhancing drugs.

His promoter, Queensberry Promotions said, external: "Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding in relation to his bout with Fabio Wardley.

"While the matter is investigated further, no additional comment will be made."

Parker could receive a two-year ban but could also be suspended for as little as three months depending on circumstances.

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Parker was hoping to put himself in position for a fight against undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk, but was upset by Briton Wardley at the O2 Arena.

Parker was heavyweight champion between 2016 and 2018, with his reign ended by Britain's Anthony Joshua in Cardiff.

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