New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Ban After Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination carried out the very day of his 11th-round defeat to British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Stakes
Wardley and Joseph Parker were part of a thrilling contest in London last October to determine the next mandatory WBO contender facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously next in line to face Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, however placed his shot at the title at stake in the UK and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Along with Potential Consequences
A routine test given to Joseph Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout showed an adverse result which leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released a communique stating: "The anti-doping body informed everyone involved about Parker had a positive result following an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made for now."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of titleholder in 2016 before he lost the WBO title through a points decision against British star Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and transferring to Dublin for fight camps under respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer overcame the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins positioning him front of the queue to challenge the champion prior to he was defeated against Wardley.
After Parker returned a failed test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results is underway.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The screening took place by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from boxing.
- His representatives published a comment addressing the failed examination.
- A review has been underway into the matter.
