Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Ban Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive in a anti-doping examination administered the very day he faced 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley along with Parker engaged in a pulsating contest in London on 25 October to decide the next next in line for the WBO facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to meet Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to stringing together a remarkable six wins in a row, however risked his shot at the title on the line in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test Along with Implications
A routine test given to Parker via the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued a statement declaring: "The agency informed all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments are planned for now."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer became world champion in 2016 prior to he lost his WBO belt via unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
The fighter has been a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for training camps alongside highly regarded trainer former champion Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to achieve multiple wins positioning him as the top contender to face the champion prior to he lost to Wardley.
Following the boxer produced a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome has been started.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The examination took place through Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker now faces a potential ban from the sport.
- His promotional team published a comment addressing the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway about the situation.