Joseph Parker Faces Potential Suspension Following Failed Drugs Test
Joseph Parker produced a positive sample during a doping test administered the very day of his 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Implications
Wardley along with Parker were part of an intense encounter held in London on 25 October to decide the next WBO mandatory challenger to unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker was previously the primary candidate to challenge the champion after compiling a notable six consecutive victories, however risked his shot at the title on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination and Possible Outcomes
A standard screening conducted on Parker via the anti-doping organization the day he fought came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team released a communique declaring: "The agency notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test administered on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment will be made at this time."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion back in 2016 before he was defeated for the WBO title through a points decision against British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker became a frequent visitor on British soil since then, fighting eight times in total in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for preparation under esteemed mentor former champion Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer recovered from the 2022 setback versus Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins positioning him as the top contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he lost to the British fighter.
After Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has been started.
- The boxer failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The test took place by Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive a possible suspension from boxing.
- His representatives has issued an announcement addressing the positive test.
- An investigation is now ongoing regarding the case.
