Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Ban Due to Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a drugs test carried out the same day of his 11th-round stoppage to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander participated in a pulsating bout held in London last October to determine the next next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been next in line to meet Usyk following stringing together an impressive six consecutive victories, but placed his mandatory challenger status on the line in London and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening conducted on the boxer via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company published a communique declaring: "Vada notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a drug screening carried out on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments will be made at this time."
Professional History
Joseph Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he lost his WBO belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom after that, competing in eight bouts in total in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for training camps under respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
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Coached by Andy Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback versus Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories positioning him at the front of the line to meet the champion before he was defeated to Wardley.
After the boxer produced a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has commenced.
- Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The test took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a potential ban from the sport.
- His promotional team has issued a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- An investigation is now in progress regarding the case.