New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Ban Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample in a doping test carried out the very day he faced 11th-round loss to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Stakes
The British boxer along with Joseph Parker participated in an intense contest held in London in late October to establish the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously next in line to challenge Usyk after stringing together a notable six consecutive victories, yet risked his shot at the title on the line in the UK and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination given to the boxer through Vada the day he fought returned positive and now leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives published a statement stating: "The anti-doping body alerted all required parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result following an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment will be made at this time."
Career Background
Joseph Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion back in 2016 before he surrendered the WBO title through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
The fighter became a regular competitor on British soil after that, fighting eight times in total in the UK and moving to Ireland for fight camps under esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
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Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 versus British heavyweight Joyce to secure multiple wins which put him as the top contender to face Oleksandr Usyk until he was defeated to the British fighter.
After the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The test was administered by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter now faces a potential ban from competition.
- His representatives has issued a comment addressing the failed examination.
- A review has been underway regarding the case.
