New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Ban Following Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive in a doping test carried out the same day of his 11th-round defeat against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Implications
Wardley and Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital on 25 October to establish the next mandatory WBO contender to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously next in line to face Usyk following putting together an impressive six consecutive victories, but risked his contender position on the line in the UK and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Implications
A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker by Vada the day of the match came back positive and now leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to clear his name.
His promotion team released a communique which read: "The agency informed all required parties about Parker had a positive result following a doping test conducted on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements are planned for now."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned world champion back in 2016 prior to he lost his WBO belt via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Joseph Parker became a regular competitor on British soil after that, having eight matches in total on UK territory and relocating to the Irish capital for fight camps under highly regarded trainer former champion Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him at the front of the line to meet the champion before he lost to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe about the test outcome is underway.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was conducted by Vada on the fight day.
- The fighter could receive a possible suspension from competition.
- His representatives published a statement addressing the positive test.
- An investigation is now ongoing about the situation.
