Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Ban After Failed Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive during a drugs test administered the very day he faced 11th-round loss against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Consequences
The British boxer together with Parker were part of a pulsating encounter held in London in late October to decide the next next in line for the WBO facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to face the champion after putting together a notable six wins in a row, however placed his shot at the title in jeopardy in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test Along with Potential Consequences
A standard screening conducted on Parker via Vada on the day of the bout returned positive and now leaves Parker in a difficult position to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives issued a statement which read: "The agency informed all relevant parties about Parker had a positive result following a drug screening administered on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no further statements will be made for now."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer became heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he lost his championship belt through a points decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
The fighter has been a frequent visitor on British soil after that, competing in eight bouts altogether in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for preparation alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
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Coached by Andy Lee, Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to achieve several successes positioning him as the top contender to meet the champion until he was defeated against Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The test was conducted by Vada on October 25th.
- Parker now faces disciplinary action from boxing.
- His promotional team published a statement confirming the adverse finding.
- An investigation is currently in progress about the situation.
