Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Ban Due to Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination carried out on the day of his 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley along with the New Zealander were part of an intense encounter in London on 25 October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to meet Oleksandr Usyk after stringing together an impressive six wins in a row, yet risked his contender position on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination administered to Joseph Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match returned positive and leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released an announcement which read: "Vada alerted all relevant parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a doping test conducted on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are forthcoming currently."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer was crowned titleholder six years ago prior to he lost his WBO belt via unanimous decision against British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Parker remained a frequent visitor on British soil since then, having eight matches in total in Britain and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation under esteemed mentor former champion Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, the boxer overcame his defeat in 2022 against British heavyweight Joyce to secure multiple wins positioning him at the front of the line to meet Usyk until he suffered defeat to Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed a positive test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings is underway.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The examination took place through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive a potential ban from competition.
- Queensberry released an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- An investigation is now ongoing about the situation.
