Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Ban After Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a drugs test conducted the same day he faced 11th-round stoppage versus British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander participated in an intense encounter held in London last October to establish the next mandatory WBO contender against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as the leading contender to face Oleksandr Usyk following stringing together a remarkable six wins in a row, yet put his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Plus Possible Outcomes
A routine test given to the boxer through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match returned positive which leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued a statement declaring: "The agency notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test conducted on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are forthcoming currently."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer became world champion six years ago until he was defeated for the WBO title through a points decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
Parker has been a regular competitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts overall in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for fight camps with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer overcame his 2022 loss against British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins positioning him at the front of the line to meet Oleksandr Usyk prior to he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has been started.
- The boxer failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The test was conducted via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from competition.
- Queensberry has issued a comment acknowledging the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is currently ongoing regarding the case.
