New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Ban Due to Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination conducted the same day he fought in 11th-round defeat to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Implications
Fabio Wardley and Joseph Parker were part of an intense bout held in London on 25 October to decide the next next in line for the WBO against reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the leading contender to face the champion after putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, however placed his shot at the title at stake during the bout and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding Plus Potential Consequences
A standard screening conducted on the boxer through Vada the day he fought came back positive and leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company published a communique stating: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test administered on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments will be made currently."
Professional History
Joseph Parker earned the title of world champion back in 2016 before he lost the WBO title through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
The fighter remained a regular competitor on British soil after that, fighting eight times altogether on UK territory and moving to the Irish capital for training camps with respected coach former champion Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories positioning him at the front of the line to meet Usyk before he lost against Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation into the findings has commenced.
- The boxer failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The screening took place by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter could receive disciplinary action from competition.
- His promotional team published a statement confirming the failed examination.
- A review is now in progress regarding the case.
