Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Potential Ban Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive as part of a drugs test carried out on the day he fought in 11th-round defeat versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Implications
Fabio Wardley along with Parker were part of a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital last October to establish the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk after compiling a notable six-fight winning streak, yet risked his contender position in jeopardy in London and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Plus Possible Outcomes
A standard screening given to Parker through Vada the day he fought came back positive and leaves Parker facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company published a statement stating: "Vada alerted all required parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening administered on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments will be made for now."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion in 2016 prior to he lost his championship belt via unanimous decision to British star Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom after that, having eight matches overall on UK territory and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him as the top contender to meet Usyk until he lost to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- The boxer failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was administered via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Parker now faces a potential ban from boxing.
- Queensberry released a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- An investigation is currently in progress into the matter.
