Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Ban Following Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a drugs test conducted the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage to British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander participated in an intense bout in London last October to decide the next mandatory WBO contender to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker was previously next in line to challenge the champion subsequent to putting together a remarkable six wins in a row, yet placed his contender position in jeopardy in London and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Plus Implications
A standard screening given to the boxer via the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and now leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence.
His promotion team issued a communique which read: "The anti-doping body notified all relevant parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a drug screening administered on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned currently."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker was crowned world champion in 2016 prior to he lost his WBO belt via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
The fighter has been an active participant in the UK after that, having eight matches altogether in Britain and relocating to Ireland for training camps with respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer recovered from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to secure multiple wins that placed him as the top contender to challenge Usyk prior to he was defeated to the British fighter.
Following Parker returned an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The examination was administered by Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker could receive a possible suspension from boxing.
- His promotional team released a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is now underway about the situation.
