Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Ban Following Failed Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive as part of a drugs test conducted the very day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match and Its Implications
Wardley and the New Zealander participated in a pulsating contest held in London in late October to determine who would become next in line for the WBO to unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the leading contender to meet Usyk after putting together a notable six consecutive victories, yet put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in the UK and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening administered to Parker through Vada the day he fought returned positive which leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team released an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a doping test administered on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no further statements are forthcoming at this time."
Professional History
Parker was crowned heavyweight champion six years ago before he lost the WBO title by unanimous decision to British star Joshua in Wales two years later.
Joseph Parker has been an active participant in the UK from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether in the UK and moving to Dublin for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up several successes which put him as the top contender to face the champion prior to he lost to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The test was administered through Vada on the fight day.
- Parker is confronting a potential ban from boxing.
- His promotional team released an announcement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review has been ongoing into the matter.
