New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Ban Following Failed Drugs Test
Joseph Parker tested positive during a doping test conducted the same day he fought in 11th-round loss against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Consequences
Wardley together with Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating bout in London on 25 October to decide the next mandatory WBO contender to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, yet placed his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test Along with Implications
A standard screening administered to Parker through the anti-doping organization the day he fought showed an adverse result which leaves Parker facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released a statement stating: "The anti-doping body informed all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test conducted on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments will be made at this time."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he lost the WBO title by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Joseph Parker became a regular competitor across the United Kingdom from that point, competing in eight bouts overall on UK territory and transferring to Dublin for fight camps with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, the boxer overcame the 2022 setback against British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him as the top contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk prior to he lost to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker returned a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has been started.
- The boxer tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was administered through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter now faces a possible suspension from competition.
- His representatives published an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- A review has been underway about the situation.
