Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Ban Following Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a doping test carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Implications
Fabio Wardley together with Joseph Parker engaged in an intense bout held in London last October to establish who would become mandatory WBO contender facing reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker was previously the primary candidate to face Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to stringing together a remarkable six wins in a row, but risked his shot at the title in jeopardy during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Plus Implications
A standard screening conducted on Parker via the anti-doping organization the day of the match returned positive and leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company published a statement declaring: "Vada alerted all relevant parties about Parker tested positive following a doping test carried out on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no further statements are forthcoming currently."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer became world champion six years ago before he lost his WBO belt via unanimous decision versus British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
The fighter became a regular competitor on British soil after that, having eight matches in total in the UK and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation under esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, the boxer bounced back from the 2022 setback versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins positioning him front of the queue to face Oleksandr Usyk until he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The examination was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter could receive disciplinary action from the sport.
- His representatives released a statement confirming the positive test.
- A review has been in progress about the situation.
