Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Suspension Following Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a doping test conducted the very day he faced 11th-round loss against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Implications
The British boxer together with Parker engaged in an intense encounter staged in the UK capital last October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the primary candidate to meet Usyk after putting together a notable six consecutive victories, yet put his shot at the title at stake in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding and Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on the boxer through Vada the day of the match returned positive which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company issued an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body alerted all required parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result after a doping test conducted on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are planned at this time."
Professional History
Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago before he surrendered his WBO belt by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker has been an active participant across the United Kingdom after that, competing in eight bouts overall in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for training camps with esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to secure several successes which put him front of the queue to meet Usyk prior to he was defeated against Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome has been started.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The test was administered through Vada on October 25th.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from boxing.
- His promotional team has issued an announcement confirming the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry has been underway regarding the case.
