Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Ban Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive in a drugs test conducted on the day of his 11th-round defeat against English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Wardley together with Joseph Parker participated in an intense encounter held in London last October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously the leading contender to meet the champion subsequent to compiling a remarkable six consecutive victories, however put his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test and Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker through the anti-doping organization the day of the match showed an adverse result which leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team released a communique which read: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a doping test administered on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are forthcoming for now."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 before he was defeated for his championship belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker has been a frequent visitor on British soil since then, fighting eight times in total in the UK and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes positioning him as the top contender to face Usyk before he was defeated to Wardley.
After the boxer produced a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The test was administered by Vada on October 25th.
- Parker is confronting a potential ban from competition.
- His representatives has issued a comment addressing the adverse finding.
- A review has been underway regarding the case.
