Joseph Parker Faces Possible Suspension Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination administered the very day he fought in 11th-round loss against English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Implications
Fabio Wardley along with the New Zealander were part of an intense bout held in London on 25 October to decide the next mandatory WBO contender to unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had been the leading contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, but put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Along with Implications
A routine test administered to Joseph Parker through Vada the day he fought returned positive and leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released a communique which read: "The agency informed everyone involved about Parker tested positive following a drug screening conducted on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment will be made currently."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion six years ago until he lost his championship belt via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
The fighter became an active participant across the United Kingdom after that, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and transferring to Ireland for fight camps alongside respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins which put him front of the queue to face Usyk prior to he suffered defeat to Wardley.
After the boxer produced an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome has been started.
- Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The examination was conducted through Vada on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker could receive a potential ban from boxing.
- His representatives has issued a comment addressing the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently in progress regarding the case.
