Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Ban Following Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a drugs test conducted on the day he fought in 11th-round defeat to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Implications
Wardley and the New Zealander participated in a pulsating encounter in London last October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a remarkable six consecutive victories, however risked his mandatory challenger status at stake during the bout and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding Plus Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination conducted on Joseph Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought showed an adverse result and leaves Parker facing a challenge to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company issued a statement which read: "Vada informed all required parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result subsequent to a drug screening carried out on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are forthcoming for now."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer became titleholder back in 2016 before he was defeated for his WBO belt through a points decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Joseph Parker became a regular competitor in the UK since then, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and moving to Dublin for training camps under esteemed mentor former champion Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer overcame his 2022 loss against British heavyweight Joyce to secure several successes that placed him at the front of the line to face Usyk until he lost against Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has commenced.
- Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada on the fight day.
- Parker is confronting disciplinary action from boxing.
- His representatives published a statement addressing the positive test.
- A review is now underway about the situation.
