Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Potential Ban After Failed Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a drugs test administered on the day he fought in 11th-round loss to English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Plus the Consequences
The British boxer together with the New Zealander participated in a pulsating bout staged in the UK capital in late October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger against unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had been the primary candidate to meet Usyk after putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, yet put his contender position in jeopardy in the UK and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Plus Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought showed an adverse result and leaves Parker facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
His promotion team issued an announcement stating: "Vada notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a doping test conducted on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are planned currently."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion six years ago prior to he was defeated for his WBO belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation alongside esteemed mentor former champion Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to secure several successes that placed him front of the queue to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he lost to the British fighter.
Following the boxer produced an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe into the findings has been started.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The examination took place via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- The fighter is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
- His representatives published an announcement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review is currently in progress into the matter.
