Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Ban Following Failed Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker produced a positive sample in a anti-doping examination carried out on the day he fought in 11th-round defeat to English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight and Its Consequences
The British boxer along with Joseph Parker engaged in an intense bout staged in the UK capital on 25 October to establish the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as next in line to meet Oleksandr Usyk following compiling a notable six consecutive victories, however risked his contender position at stake during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test and Potential Consequences
A standard screening conducted on the boxer by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives published an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result subsequent to an anti-doping test conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments are planned currently."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he surrendered his WBO belt by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Joseph Parker became a regular competitor on British soil since then, competing in eight bouts overall in the UK and transferring to Ireland for training camps with respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him as the top contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk until he was defeated to Wardley.
Following the boxer produced an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has commenced.
- The boxer failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The test took place by Vada on the fight day.
- Parker is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
- His representatives published an announcement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review is now underway into the matter.
