New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Ban Following Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample as part of a drugs test conducted the very day he fought in 11th-round stoppage versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Implications
Fabio Wardley together with Parker were part of a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital on 25 October to determine who would become WBO mandatory challenger against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously the leading contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk following compiling an impressive six-fight winning streak, yet risked his mandatory challenger status on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Along with Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination given to the boxer by the anti-doping organization the day he fought came back positive and leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives published a statement declaring: "Vada notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a doping test conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no further statements are planned at this time."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer became world champion back in 2016 prior to he lost his championship belt via unanimous decision to British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
The fighter has been a regular competitor on British soil after that, fighting eight times altogether in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for preparation with esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to achieve multiple wins positioning him front of the queue to challenge Usyk prior to he lost to the British fighter.
After the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The screening took place through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from competition.
- Queensberry released an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A review has been in progress into the matter.