Joseph Parker has reacted on social media to reports that he tested positive for cocaine on the day of his fight with Fabio Wardley.
The 33-year-old heavyweight contender was ahead on two cards going into the 11th round of a memorable battle before he was dramatically stopped. It was a sizeable upset but the results of his drug test, which occurred before the contest, has proved an even bigger surprise.
"Before my recent fight I took a voluntary test and have now been informed that it returned an adverse result. This came as a real surprise to me," said Parker, 36-4 (24 KOs).
"I did not take any prohibited substance, I did not use performance enhancing drugs and do not support their use. I am cooperating fully with the process now underway, and I am confident the investigation will clear my name.
"Thank you to everyone who has sent messages of support. It means a great deal to me and my family. When the investigation is complete, I will speak openly and answer questions."
