Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Ban After Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a doping test administered the same day he faced 11th-round defeat against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with Parker engaged in a pulsating bout in London last October to decide the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger against undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been next in line to challenge Usyk subsequent to putting together a notable six consecutive victories, but put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Along with Potential Consequences
A routine test conducted on Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought came back positive which leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released an announcement stating: "Vada notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result following a doping test conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no further statements are forthcoming currently."
Boxing Journey
Parker became heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he surrendered the WBO title via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
The fighter became a regular competitor on British soil after that, competing in eight bouts altogether in the UK and moving to Ireland for training camps under esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer overcame his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins which put him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk until he was defeated against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has been started.
- Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The examination was administered through Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker now faces disciplinary action from boxing.
- His promotional team has issued a statement addressing the adverse finding.
- A review is now in progress regarding the case.
