New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Potential Ban After Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive in a drugs test administered the very day he fought in 11th-round stoppage versus English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with Parker engaged in a pulsating encounter in London in late October to establish the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously next in line to meet Usyk after stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, but risked his contender position at stake in the UK and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test and Implications
An ordinary examination conducted on Joseph Parker by the anti-doping organization the day he fought showed an adverse result and now leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company published a communique declaring: "The agency notified everyone involved about Parker tested positive following a drug screening administered on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no more comments are forthcoming at this time."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he lost the WBO title by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
The fighter has been an active participant on British soil after that, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for fight camps under respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to chalk up multiple wins which put him at the front of the line to face Usyk until he lost against Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has been started.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The test was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter is confronting disciplinary action from boxing.
- His promotional team has issued a comment acknowledging the positive test.
- A review is currently ongoing into the matter.
