New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Ban After Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample in a drugs test administered on the day of his 11th-round loss against UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker were part of a thrilling encounter in London on 25 October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously the primary candidate to challenge Usyk subsequent to compiling a notable six-fight winning streak, yet risked his contender position on the line in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test Plus Implications
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker by Vada the day he fought returned positive and leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to clear his name.
His promotion team issued an announcement which read: "The agency informed all relevant parties about Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments are forthcoming for now."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer became world champion in 2016 before he surrendered the WBO title through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Parker has been an active participant on British soil after that, having eight matches overall in Britain and transferring to the Irish capital for preparation under esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 to British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him front of the queue to challenge Oleksandr Usyk before he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Following Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started.
- Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The examination was administered by Vada on October 25th.
- Parker is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
- His promotional team has issued an announcement confirming the failed examination.
- An investigation is currently underway into the matter.
