New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Ban Due to Failed Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding in a anti-doping examination carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match Plus the Consequences
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling encounter held in London in late October to decide the next mandatory WBO contender to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as next in line to meet Usyk following putting together an impressive six consecutive victories, yet placed his shot at the title in jeopardy in London and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test and Potential Consequences
A standard screening administered to Parker through Vada the day of the match returned positive and leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives issued a statement declaring: "The anti-doping body notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a drug screening administered on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no more comments are planned currently."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion six years ago until he lost the WBO title by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
The fighter remained an active participant in the UK after that, competing in eight bouts overall in Britain and transferring to Ireland for training camps alongside esteemed mentor former champion Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to secure several successes which put him front of the queue to meet Usyk before he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
Following Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome is underway.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The screening took place by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
- His promotional team released a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now in progress regarding the case.
