Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Ban Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker produced a positive sample in a anti-doping examination administered on the day he fought in 11th-round stoppage to English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Implications
The British boxer along with the New Zealander were part of a pulsating encounter held in London on 25 October to decide the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger to unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had been next in line to meet Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a remarkable six consecutive victories, yet risked his mandatory challenger status at stake in London and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Along with Potential Consequences
A routine test given to the boxer by Vada on the day of the bout came back positive and now leaves Parker with a battle to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives issued an announcement which read: "The agency notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a drug screening administered on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no more comments are planned at this time."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion in 2016 until he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Wales two years later.
The fighter remained an active participant on British soil from that point, having eight matches overall in Britain and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation with respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
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Guided by Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback versus Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories which put him front of the queue to meet Usyk before he was defeated to the British fighter.
After the boxer produced a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has been started.
- Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The test was conducted by Vada on October 25th.
- Parker is confronting disciplinary action from boxing.
- Queensberry released a comment addressing the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is currently in progress about the situation.
