New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Ban Due to Failed Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding in a doping test conducted the same day of his 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Implications
The British boxer together with Parker were part of a thrilling encounter staged in the UK capital on 25 October to determine the next next in line for the WBO against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously next in line to meet Oleksandr Usyk after stringing together an impressive six consecutive victories, but placed his shot at the title on the line in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination and Possible Outcomes
A standard screening administered to Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team released a statement which read: "Vada notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result after a doping test carried out on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are planned at this time."
Professional History
Parker was crowned titleholder back in 2016 until he surrendered the WBO title by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Joseph Parker has been an active participant in the UK after that, fighting eight times in total in the UK and moving to Dublin for preparation under respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins that placed him at the front of the line to challenge the champion prior to he lost to the British fighter.
Following Parker returned a failed test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results is underway.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The test took place through Vada on October 25th.
- Parker could receive a possible suspension from competition.
- His promotional team has issued a statement confirming the positive test.
- A review is now ongoing into the matter.
