Joseph Parker Faces Possible Ban Following Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding in a anti-doping examination conducted the very day he faced 11th-round stoppage versus British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Implications
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander participated in a pulsating contest in London on 25 October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge Usyk subsequent to stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, however risked his contender position on the line in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening conducted on Parker by Vada the day of the match came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company issued a communique stating: "The agency alerted everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to an anti-doping test conducted on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are forthcoming currently."
Career Background
Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago before he surrendered the WBO title via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Joseph Parker became an active participant on British soil after that, fighting eight times altogether in Britain and transferring to Dublin for preparation alongside respected coach former champion Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him at the front of the line to challenge Usyk prior to he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Following Parker returned an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive a potential ban from the sport.
- His promotional team has issued an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway into the matter.
