New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Potential Ban Due to Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a doping test carried out the same day of his 11th-round loss to UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with Parker participated in a pulsating bout staged in the UK capital in late October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO facing unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as the primary candidate to meet Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to compiling a remarkable six consecutive victories, yet risked his contender position on the line in London and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Plus Possible Outcomes
A routine test given to the boxer by the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout returned positive which leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team issued a communique which read: "The anti-doping body alerted everyone involved about Parker returned an adverse finding after a doping test conducted on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are forthcoming at this time."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder in 2016 until he was defeated for his WBO belt through a points decision versus British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
Parker remained an active participant on British soil from that point, fighting eight times in total in the UK and relocating to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside respected coach former champion Lee in recent years.
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Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer overcame the 2022 setback versus British heavyweight Joyce to achieve multiple wins which put him as the top contender to meet Usyk prior to he lost against Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome has been started.
- The boxer tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The examination took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- The fighter now faces disciplinary action from competition.
- His promotional team has issued a comment acknowledging the positive test.
- A formal inquiry has been in progress into the matter.
