Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Ban Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a drugs test carried out the very day of his 11th-round loss to English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Implications
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander participated in an intense encounter in London in late October to decide the next WBO mandatory challenger against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the primary candidate to challenge Usyk after stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, but risked his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Plus Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker by Vada on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and now leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to clear his name.
His promotion team issued a statement stating: "The anti-doping body informed everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are forthcoming for now."
Boxing Journey
Parker earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 until he was defeated for the WBO title through a points decision against British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Joseph Parker remained a regular competitor in the UK from that point, having eight matches altogether on UK territory and moving to Ireland for fight camps under respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him as the top contender to face Oleksandr Usyk prior to he lost to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The test took place via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- The fighter could receive disciplinary action from boxing.
- Queensberry has issued an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- A review is currently ongoing regarding the case.
