New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Ban After Failed Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a anti-doping examination administered on the day he fought in 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Implications
The British boxer together with Joseph Parker were part of a pulsating contest held in London in late October to determine the next next in line for the WBO to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker was previously the leading contender to face Oleksandr Usyk after putting together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, however risked his mandatory challenger status on the line in London and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Along with Potential Consequences
A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought showed an adverse result and now leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence.
His promotion team released a statement declaring: "The anti-doping body alerted everyone involved about Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening carried out on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are forthcoming currently."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer became titleholder six years ago before he was defeated for the WBO title through a points decision against British star Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
The fighter remained an active participant in the UK since then, competing in eight bouts in total in the UK and relocating to Dublin for preparation under highly regarded trainer former champion Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve multiple wins positioning him front of the queue to challenge the champion until he lost to Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has been started.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The screening was administered via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive a possible suspension from competition.
- Queensberry released a statement addressing the positive test.
- A formal inquiry has been underway about the situation.
