Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Ban After Failed Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker produced a positive sample as part of a doping test administered the same day he fought in 11th-round defeat against UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout and Its Consequences
Wardley along with Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating bout staged in the UK capital on 25 October to establish the next mandatory WBO contender against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to meet the champion following stringing together a remarkable six consecutive victories, yet risked his mandatory challenger status on the line during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Plus Implications
A routine test conducted on the boxer through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and now leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued a communique declaring: "The anti-doping body informed everyone involved about Parker had a positive result after a drug screening conducted on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no further statements are forthcoming at this time."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer became world champion back in 2016 until he lost the WBO title by unanimous decision to British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Parker became an active participant on British soil since then, having eight matches altogether in Britain and moving to the Irish capital for preparation with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes which put him at the front of the line to face the champion until he lost to the British fighter.
After Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway.
- Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening was administered via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from boxing.
- His representatives released a comment confirming the adverse finding.
- A review is currently underway about the situation.
