New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Ban Due to Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a anti-doping examination administered on the day he fought in 11th-round defeat to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Implications
Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker participated in a thrilling bout held in London on 25 October to decide the next next in line for the WBO against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as next in line to meet Oleksandr Usyk after stringing together an impressive six-fight winning streak, however put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Along with Potential Consequences
A standard screening given to Joseph Parker by the anti-doping organization the day he fought returned positive and now leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued an announcement which read: "The agency notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a drug screening carried out on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made for now."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion six years ago until he lost his championship belt via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
Joseph Parker has been an active participant in the UK from that point, having eight matches overall on UK territory and transferring to the Irish capital for training camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins that placed him at the front of the line to face the champion prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned a failed test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has been started.
- The boxer failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The test took place through Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter could receive a possible suspension from boxing.
- His representatives released a comment addressing the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now in progress about the situation.
