New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Ban Due to Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a drugs test conducted the very day of his 11th-round loss versus UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Implications
Fabio Wardley along with the New Zealander participated in a pulsating contest in London last October to determine who would become WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as the primary candidate to meet Oleksandr Usyk following compiling a remarkable six consecutive victories, however put his mandatory challenger status on the line in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Along with Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker through Vada the day he fought returned positive and now leaves Parker facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives released a statement which read: "Vada alerted all relevant parties about Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are planned at this time."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer was crowned titleholder in 2016 before he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Parker has been an active participant in the UK from that point, having eight matches in total in the UK and transferring to Ireland for fight camps alongside respected coach former champion Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins which put him as the top contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk until he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results is underway.
- Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening was administered through Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker could receive disciplinary action from the sport.
- Queensberry has issued an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- A review is now underway regarding the case.
