New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Ban After Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination administered on the day he faced 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
The British boxer together with Parker were part of a thrilling encounter held in London last October to determine who would become next in line for the WBO to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously the primary candidate to meet Usyk after stringing together a notable six consecutive victories, yet risked his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy during the bout and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding and Potential Consequences
A standard screening administered to Parker via the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout returned positive which leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released a communique stating: "Vada informed all required parties about Parker tested positive after a drug screening carried out on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no further statements will be made at this time."
Professional History
Parker was crowned heavyweight champion back in 2016 before he lost the WBO title via unanimous decision against British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
The fighter became an active participant across the United Kingdom from that point, competing in eight bouts in total in the UK and moving to Ireland for training camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories which put him as the top contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk until he lost against Wardley.
Following the boxer produced a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome has been started.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The test was conducted through Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker now faces a potential ban from boxing.
- Queensberry published a comment addressing the failed examination.
- An investigation has been in progress into the matter.
