Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Ban Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a drugs test administered the very day he fought in 11th-round loss versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Stakes
Wardley together with the New Zealander were part of an intense contest in London last October to decide who would become WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to meet the champion subsequent to compiling a notable six wins in a row, yet placed his mandatory challenger status at stake in the UK and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Plus Potential Consequences
A routine test conducted on the boxer through the anti-doping organization the day of the match showed an adverse result and now leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company published an announcement stating: "The agency informed all required parties about Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening administered on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are forthcoming for now."
Professional History
Parker became world champion back in 2016 before he lost his championship belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Joseph Parker has been a frequent visitor in the UK after that, having eight matches overall in Britain and transferring to the Irish capital for training camps alongside esteemed mentor former champion Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer overcame the 2022 setback to British heavyweight Joyce to secure multiple wins which put him at the front of the line to face Usyk prior to he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results is underway.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The test was conducted by Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker now faces disciplinary action from competition.
- Queensberry has issued an announcement addressing the failed examination.
- An investigation is now ongoing about the situation.
