Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Ban After Positive Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive as part of a drugs test administered the same day he faced 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Consequences
Wardley together with the New Zealander engaged in an intense bout in London last October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to face Oleksandr Usyk after stringing together an impressive six consecutive victories, but put his contender position in jeopardy in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test and Possible Outcomes
A standard screening conducted on the boxer via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought came back positive which leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives released a communique declaring: "Vada informed everyone involved about Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no further statements will be made currently."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion back in 2016 before he was defeated for his championship belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts overall on UK territory and transferring to Dublin for fight camps alongside respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer overcame his 2022 loss versus British heavyweight Joyce to secure several successes positioning him as the top contender to challenge Usyk prior to he was defeated to the British fighter.
Following Parker's sample showed a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe into the findings has been started.
- Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening took place through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from competition.
- His promotional team has issued an announcement confirming the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is currently ongoing about the situation.
