Joseph Parker Faces Potential Ban After Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination administered the same day he fought in 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley along with the New Zealander were part of a thrilling contest in London on 25 October to establish the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the primary candidate to face Oleksandr Usyk following compiling a notable six wins in a row, but placed his shot at the title at stake in the UK and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Plus Potential Consequences
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker through Vada the day of the match came back positive and now leaves Parker with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team published a communique declaring: "The agency informed everyone involved about Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements are planned at this time."
Boxing Journey
Parker became heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his WBO belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Joseph Parker has been a frequent visitor on British soil after that, having eight matches in total in Britain and moving to the Irish capital for fight camps with respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to achieve several successes which put him at the front of the line to meet the champion until he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome is underway.
- The boxer failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The screening took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from the sport.
- Queensberry published a comment addressing the failed examination.
- An investigation has been in progress about the situation.
