Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Ban After Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a anti-doping examination administered the same day he fought in 11th-round loss against UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout and Its Implications
The British boxer and the New Zealander engaged in a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital in late October to decide the next next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter was previously next in line to face Oleksandr Usyk following stringing together an impressive six consecutive victories, but risked his mandatory challenger status on the line in London and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding Plus Possible Outcomes
A standard screening conducted on Parker via the anti-doping organization the day of the match came back positive and leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to clear his name.
His promotion team issued a statement stating: "The anti-doping body alerted everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test conducted on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned at this time."
Boxing Journey
Parker became heavyweight champion back in 2016 before he was defeated for his WBO belt through a points decision versus British star Joshua in Wales in 2018.
The fighter has been an active participant in the UK after that, competing in eight bouts overall in the UK and moving to Dublin for training camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 versus British heavyweight Joyce to achieve multiple wins that placed him at the front of the line to meet Oleksandr Usyk prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The examination was administered via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- Parker now faces a possible suspension from boxing.
- His representatives has issued a statement confirming the adverse finding.
- A review is currently in progress into the matter.
