Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Potential Ban After Positive Drugs Test
Joseph Parker produced a positive sample as part of a doping test administered the very day of his 11th-round defeat against English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Plus the Consequences
Wardley together with Joseph Parker participated in an intense encounter in London on 25 October to establish the next mandatory WBO contender against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to meet Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to compiling an impressive six wins in a row, but put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in the UK and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening administered to the boxer through Vada the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company published a statement which read: "Vada alerted everyone involved about Parker had a positive result subsequent to a drug screening carried out on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are forthcoming currently."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 until he was defeated for his WBO belt via unanimous decision to British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
The fighter became a frequent visitor on British soil since then, fighting eight times altogether on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for fight camps with esteemed mentor former champion Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to chalk up multiple wins which put him front of the queue to challenge the champion until he lost to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The test was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter is confronting disciplinary action from the sport.
- His promotional team has issued a comment addressing the failed examination.
- An investigation is currently in progress about the situation.
