Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Ban After Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a doping test administered on the day he fought in 11th-round defeat against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Implications
The British boxer together with Joseph Parker were part of an intense bout held in London last October to determine the next mandatory WBO contender facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as the leading contender to face the champion subsequent to compiling a remarkable six-fight winning streak, yet placed his contender position on the line in London and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Along with Implications
A standard screening conducted on the boxer via Vada the day of the match returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team released a communique declaring: "Vada informed everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a doping test conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments are forthcoming for now."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned world champion in 2016 before he surrendered the WBO title through a points decision to British star Joshua in Wales two years later.
The fighter remained an active participant on British soil from that point, having eight matches in total on UK territory and moving to the Irish capital for fight camps under respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss against British heavyweight Joyce to secure multiple wins which put him at the front of the line to meet Oleksandr Usyk until he lost to the British fighter.
After Parker returned a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening was administered via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from boxing.
- His promotional team has issued a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry has been underway regarding the case.
