New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Suspension Due to Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a drugs test conducted the same day he fought in 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight and Its Consequences
Wardley and Joseph Parker were part of a pulsating encounter in London last October to determine the identity of the mandatory WBO contender to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter was previously the leading contender to meet the champion after stringing together a notable six wins in a row, however placed his mandatory challenger status at stake in London and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test and Implications
A routine test administered to Parker via the anti-doping organization the day he fought returned positive and now leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives issued an announcement which read: "The anti-doping body notified all relevant parties that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening carried out on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments will be made currently."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned world champion six years ago before he lost his WBO belt via unanimous decision to British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Parker became a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, having eight matches altogether on UK territory and moving to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside respected coach former champion Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 against British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up several successes that placed him front of the queue to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome has been started.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a possible suspension from boxing.
- Queensberry has issued an announcement addressing the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway into the matter.
