Joseph Parker blames nutritionist's cocaine use for failed drug test

Former heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker said on Monday that a failed drug test, which led to a 12‑month suspension, was caused by cocaine used by his nutritionist, according to UK Anti‑Doping (UKAD). The test was taken on 12 February 2024 in London. UKAD announced the suspension on 28 February, citing the presence of cocaine metabolites in Parker’s blood sample. Parker has denied any intentional use of banned substances.

The case comes at a time when boxing is tightening its anti‑doping rules after a spate of high‑profile violations. Parker, who held the WBO heavyweight title from 2018 to 2020, was scheduled to fight former champion Tyson Fury in June. A doping ban threatens to derail the fight and damage Parker’s reputation. In the past year, other boxers such as Anthony Joshua and Amir Khan have faced suspensions for stimulants and anabolic agents, prompting the sport’s governing bodies to enforce stricter testing.

UKAD’s statement said that athletes are responsible for any substance that enters their body, but it also acknowledged that accidental contamination can occur. Parker’s team claims the nutritionist, who also works with other fighters, inadvertently introduced cocaine into a protein shake during a training session. “We have no record of Parker ever taking or being offered any illegal drug,” the team said. UKAD is reviewing the claim and will consider evidence of contamination. The boxing federation has pledged to support a thorough investigation and will decide whether to lift the ban pending the outcome.

If UKAD upholds the suspension, Parker will be