Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Ban Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a doping test carried out the same day of his 11th-round loss versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Implications
The British boxer and Joseph Parker participated in a thrilling encounter staged in the UK capital on 25 October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to face the champion after compiling a notable six wins in a row, however placed his contender position on the line in London and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Along with Potential Consequences
A standard screening conducted on Joseph Parker by Vada the day he fought showed an adverse result which leaves Parker facing a challenge to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives released a communique declaring: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result following an anti-doping test conducted on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are planned at this time."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion six years ago prior to he lost his championship belt through a points decision versus British star Joshua in Wales in 2018.
The fighter remained a regular competitor on British soil after that, fighting eight times altogether in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for preparation alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him front of the queue to challenge Usyk until he lost against Wardley.
After Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings is underway.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The screening was administered through Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker now faces a potential ban from the sport.
- His representatives has issued an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is currently in progress about the situation.
