Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Ban Following Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a doping test conducted the very day of his 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight and Its Implications
Wardley together with Joseph Parker engaged in a thrilling contest staged in the UK capital on 25 October to establish the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously the leading contender to face Oleksandr Usyk following compiling an impressive six consecutive victories, but risked his contender position in jeopardy in the UK and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding and Implications
A routine test administered to Joseph Parker by Vada the day of the match returned positive which leaves Parker in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives released a statement which read: "The agency informed all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result after a doping test conducted on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned for now."
Boxing Journey
Parker became heavyweight champion in 2016 until he was defeated for his WBO belt via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Parker remained a frequent visitor in the UK after that, competing in eight bouts overall on UK territory and moving to Dublin for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories positioning him as the top contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk before he lost to the British fighter.
After Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome is underway.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The test was administered by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter is confronting a potential ban from competition.
- His representatives published a comment addressing the positive test.
- A formal inquiry has been in progress regarding the case.