Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Ban After Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a anti-doping examination carried out the very day of his 11th-round stoppage against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Consequences
The British boxer together with Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating bout staged in the UK capital in late October to determine the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the leading contender to face Usyk subsequent to stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, however put his shot at the title at stake in London and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Plus Implications
An ordinary examination administered to Joseph Parker via Vada the day of the match returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team released an announcement stating: "Vada informed all required parties about Parker returned an adverse finding following a doping test conducted on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements will be made at this time."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion back in 2016 until he was defeated for his WBO belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
The fighter remained an active participant on British soil from that point, competing in eight bouts in total in Britain and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes which put him front of the queue to challenge Oleksandr Usyk before he lost to the British fighter.
Following the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has been started.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The test was administered via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
- Queensberry has issued a statement addressing the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway about the situation.