New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Possible Ban Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a drugs test administered on the day he fought in 11th-round loss against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Consequences
The British boxer and Parker were part of an intense contest in London last October to decide the identity of the mandatory WBO contender to unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the leading contender to face the champion subsequent to putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, yet risked his contender position in jeopardy in the UK and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding Plus Implications
A routine test administered to Joseph Parker via the anti-doping organization the day of the match showed an adverse result which leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives published a statement declaring: "Vada notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are forthcoming at this time."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 prior to he surrendered his championship belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Parker remained a frequent visitor on British soil since then, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and moving to Dublin for fight camps with esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up several successes positioning him front of the queue to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he lost to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has been started.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The screening was administered through Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker could receive a potential ban from boxing.
- Queensberry published a statement acknowledging the positive test.
- An investigation is currently underway into the matter.
