Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Ban Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a doping test conducted the very day he faced 11th-round loss against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match Plus the Implications
Wardley together with Joseph Parker participated in a thrilling contest held in London in late October to establish who would become next in line for the WBO against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the primary candidate to face Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a notable six consecutive victories, yet risked his shot at the title in jeopardy during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination and Potential Consequences
A standard screening conducted on the boxer by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company released a communique declaring: "The anti-doping body alerted all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following a doping test conducted on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are planned at this time."
Professional History
Parker became world champion back in 2016 prior to he lost his championship belt through a points decision against British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker remained an active participant in the UK from that point, having eight matches in total on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for fight camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins positioning him as the top contender to challenge Usyk until he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The examination took place via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- The fighter is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
- His representatives has issued a statement addressing the positive test.
- A review has been ongoing regarding the case.
