Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Ban Following Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive as part of a doping test conducted the same day of his 11th-round loss versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Wardley together with Joseph Parker engaged in an intense contest in London in late October to determine who would become WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been next in line to face the champion after compiling a remarkable six consecutive victories, however placed his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in the UK and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Plus Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on the boxer through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought returned positive and leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company published a statement stating: "The anti-doping body notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive after an anti-doping test carried out on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are forthcoming at this time."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 prior to he surrendered his championship belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
The fighter became a frequent visitor on British soil since then, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and moving to Ireland for fight camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer overcame his defeat in 2022 to British heavyweight Joyce to secure multiple wins that placed him front of the queue to face Usyk prior to he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has been started.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The test took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- The fighter is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
- His representatives has issued a comment addressing the positive test.
- An investigation is currently in progress regarding the case.
