Joseph Parker Faces Possible Ban Due to Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding in a drugs test conducted the very day he fought in 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Consequences
Wardley and the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling contest staged in the UK capital last October to decide the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger facing unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker was previously next in line to meet Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, however placed his contender position at stake in the UK and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding and Implications
A routine test administered to the boxer through Vada on the day of the bout came back positive and now leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company issued a communique which read: "Vada alerted all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening conducted on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made at this time."
Professional History
Joseph Parker earned the title of titleholder six years ago before he was defeated for his championship belt through a points decision to British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
Parker remained a frequent visitor on British soil after that, fighting eight times in total in the UK and relocating to Dublin for fight camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to secure several successes that placed him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk until he lost against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings has commenced.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The screening was administered by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter could receive a potential ban from the sport.
- Queensberry released a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry has been underway about the situation.
