Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Ban After Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample in a drugs test carried out the very day of his 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
The British boxer together with Parker participated in an intense contest in London in late October to decide the next WBO mandatory challenger facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to face Usyk subsequent to putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, yet risked his contender position in jeopardy in the UK and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding Plus Implications
A routine test given to Parker via the anti-doping organization the day he fought came back positive which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives released an announcement which read: "Vada alerted all relevant parties about Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening carried out on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are planned for now."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer became titleholder six years ago prior to he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018.
Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor in the UK since then, competing in eight bouts in total in Britain and relocating to the Irish capital for fight camps with respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins that placed him front of the queue to face Oleksandr Usyk until he lost against Wardley.
After Parker returned an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The test took place via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Parker is confronting a possible suspension from boxing.
- Queensberry released a comment confirming the positive test.
- An investigation is currently ongoing into the matter.
