Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Ban Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a doping test carried out the very day of his 11th-round loss against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Consequences
Fabio Wardley together with Joseph Parker engaged in a thrilling bout in London last October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as next in line to face Oleksandr Usyk following compiling an impressive six consecutive victories, however risked his shot at the title at stake in the UK and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding and Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker through the anti-doping organization the day he fought came back positive and leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company released a communique which read: "The anti-doping body alerted everyone involved about Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are forthcoming at this time."
Career Background
Joseph Parker became heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
The fighter has been a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom from that point, fighting eight times altogether in the UK and relocating to the Irish capital for training camps with highly regarded trainer former champion Lee over the past few years.
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Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to achieve several successes positioning him as the top contender to meet Usyk until he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
Following Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings has commenced.
- The boxer tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening took place by Vada on the fight day.
- Parker now faces a possible suspension from competition.
- His representatives published a comment acknowledging the positive test.
- A review is now ongoing about the situation.
