Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Ban Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample during a drugs test conducted on the day he faced 11th-round loss against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander were part of a pulsating encounter held in London in late October to establish the identity of the mandatory WBO contender against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously the primary candidate to face Usyk subsequent to stringing together an impressive six-fight winning streak, however risked his contender position in jeopardy in London and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination administered to Joseph Parker via Vada on the day of the bout returned positive and leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to prove his innocence.
His promotion team published an announcement declaring: "The agency alerted all required parties about Parker returned an adverse finding after a drug screening administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are forthcoming at this time."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 prior to he lost his WBO belt via unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Joseph Parker remained a regular competitor on British soil since then, fighting eight times in total in Britain and moving to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside highly regarded trainer former champion Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories positioning him front of the queue to meet Oleksandr Usyk until he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Following the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has been started.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The examination took place by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker could receive a possible suspension from boxing.
- Queensberry released a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- An investigation has been in progress into the matter.
