Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Ban After Failed Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding during a doping test administered the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Plus the Stakes
The British boxer along with the New Zealander engaged in an intense encounter staged in the UK capital on 25 October to decide who would become mandatory WBO contender against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as next in line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following stringing together an impressive six-fight winning streak, but put his shot at the title in jeopardy during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Plus Potential Consequences
A routine test administered to the boxer through the anti-doping organization the day of the match showed an adverse result and now leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives issued an announcement declaring: "Vada informed everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening carried out on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are forthcoming for now."
Professional History
Joseph Parker became heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he lost his championship belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Joseph Parker became an active participant in the UK since then, fighting eight times in total on UK territory and relocating to Dublin for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to achieve several successes which put him at the front of the line to meet Usyk prior to he was defeated against Wardley.
Following Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The test was administered by Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from boxing.
- His representatives released a comment confirming the positive test.
- A review is currently underway into the matter.