New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Potential Ban Following Failed Drugs Test
Joseph Parker tested positive in a drugs test conducted the same day he faced 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Implications
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling encounter staged in the UK capital last October to decide the next WBO mandatory challenger against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously the primary candidate to challenge the champion following stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, but put his shot at the title in jeopardy in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes
A routine test administered to Joseph Parker through Vada the day he fought returned positive and now leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released a statement declaring: "Vada informed all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a doping test conducted on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no further statements will be made at this time."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion back in 2016 before he was defeated for the WBO title via unanimous decision against British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Parker became a regular competitor on British soil since then, having eight matches altogether on UK territory and transferring to Dublin for fight camps under respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, the boxer overcame his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories which put him at the front of the line to meet the champion until he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome is underway.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The screening was administered through Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker could receive a possible suspension from competition.
- His promotional team has issued a comment confirming the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is now underway about the situation.
