New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Ban Due to Failed Doping Test
Joseph Parker produced a positive sample in a anti-doping examination administered the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight and Its Stakes
The British boxer together with the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling encounter held in London last October to decide who would become WBO mandatory challenger against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge Usyk after stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, however risked his contender position at stake in the UK and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Plus Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on the boxer by Vada the day he fought came back positive which leaves Parker facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
His promotion team released an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a drug screening conducted on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no further statements are forthcoming for now."
Career Background
Parker became heavyweight champion in 2016 before he was defeated for his WBO belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
The fighter became a regular competitor across the United Kingdom after that, competing in eight bouts overall in Britain and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation under esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, the boxer overcame his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to chalk up multiple wins positioning him front of the queue to face the champion prior to he was defeated to the British fighter.
Following Parker returned a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has been started.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The screening was administered via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker could receive a possible suspension from boxing.
- Queensberry has issued a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is currently ongoing about the situation.
