New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Ban Following Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive in a drugs test carried out on the day he faced 11th-round defeat to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Implications
Fabio Wardley together with Parker participated in a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital in late October to determine who would become WBO mandatory challenger facing reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as next in line to face the champion after putting together an impressive six consecutive victories, but risked his shot at the title on the line in the UK and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination and Possible Outcomes
A routine test given to Joseph Parker by the anti-doping organization the day he fought showed an adverse result and now leaves Parker facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives published a statement stating: "Vada notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result after a drug screening conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments are planned at this time."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer became world champion six years ago before he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
The fighter remained an active participant in the UK from that point, competing in eight bouts overall in the UK and moving to Ireland for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from the 2022 setback versus Joe Joyce to achieve multiple wins which put him front of the queue to challenge Usyk before he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Following the boxer produced an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The test was conducted via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from competition.
- Queensberry released a comment addressing the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now ongoing about the situation.
