Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Ban After Positive Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive during a drugs test carried out the very day of his 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match and Its Consequences
Wardley and Joseph Parker were part of an intense contest held in London on 25 October to decide the next WBO mandatory challenger facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously the leading contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, however placed his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test and Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination conducted on the boxer via Vada the day he fought returned positive and leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company published a statement stating: "Vada notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result following a doping test conducted on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements will be made currently."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of titleholder six years ago before he lost his WBO belt by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Parker remained a frequent visitor in the UK after that, competing in eight bouts overall on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for fight camps with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
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Coached by Andy Lee, Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to achieve multiple wins which put him front of the queue to challenge Usyk before he lost to the British fighter.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has been started.
- The boxer failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The examination was conducted via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker now faces disciplinary action from the sport.
- Queensberry has issued an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now ongoing regarding the case.
