Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Ban Due to Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a doping test conducted on the day he faced 11th-round defeat against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander participated in a thrilling bout in London in late October to establish the identity of the next in line for the WBO facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the primary candidate to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following compiling a remarkable six-fight winning streak, but placed his contender position on the line in London and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Along with Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination given to Joseph Parker through the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout came back positive and now leaves Parker facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives issued a statement which read: "The anti-doping body notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result subsequent to an anti-doping test conducted on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements will be made at this time."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago before he was defeated for the WBO title via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Parker became an active participant in the UK since then, fighting eight times altogether on UK territory and transferring to the Irish capital for training camps alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 versus British heavyweight Joyce to secure multiple wins that placed him front of the queue to challenge the champion prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley.
After the boxer produced an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has commenced.
- Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The screening took place via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker could receive a possible suspension from competition.
- His promotional team released a comment confirming the failed examination.
- An investigation is now in progress regarding the case.
