Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Ban Following Failed Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive during a anti-doping examination conducted the very day he faced 11th-round stoppage versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander were part of an intense bout staged in the UK capital in late October to establish the identity of the next in line for the WBO against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to face Usyk subsequent to stringing together a notable six wins in a row, but put his shot at the title on the line in the UK and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test and Implications
An ordinary examination conducted on Joseph Parker through Vada on the day of the bout returned positive and leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released a statement declaring: "The agency informed all required parties about Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test conducted on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are planned at this time."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker became heavyweight champion six years ago until he surrendered his WBO belt through a points decision against British star Joshua in Wales in 2018.
The fighter remained a regular competitor across the United Kingdom after that, having eight matches in total in the UK and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation under respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback against British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories positioning him front of the queue to face the champion before he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has been started.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The test took place via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker is confronting disciplinary action from boxing.
- His promotional team has issued a comment confirming the adverse finding.
- An investigation is now underway into the matter.
