Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Ban Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive during a doping test conducted the very day of his 11th-round defeat to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Stakes
The British boxer along with the New Zealander were part of a thrilling contest held in London on 25 October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously next in line to face the champion subsequent to compiling a remarkable six consecutive victories, but put his contender position on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test and Potential Consequences
A standard screening conducted on Parker via Vada the day of the match showed an adverse result which leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives published a communique which read: "The anti-doping body informed all relevant parties about Parker tested positive after an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made at this time."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion back in 2016 until he lost the WBO title through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018.
The fighter became a frequent visitor in the UK since then, competing in eight bouts altogether in the UK and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation alongside respected coach former champion Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him as the top contender to face Usyk before he lost to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has been started.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The examination was administered by Vada on the fight day.
- The fighter now faces a potential ban from competition.
- His promotional team published a comment addressing the adverse finding.
- A review is currently underway into the matter.
