Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Suspension Following Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a anti-doping examination administered on the day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
Wardley and Joseph Parker were part of a thrilling contest held in London last October to determine the next next in line for the WBO facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been next in line to challenge Usyk subsequent to compiling a remarkable six consecutive victories, however put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test Plus Implications
A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker through Vada the day of the match came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company published an announcement declaring: "The agency alerted all relevant parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a doping test conducted on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements will be made for now."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder back in 2016 before he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Parker remained a frequent visitor in the UK after that, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and relocating to Dublin for training camps alongside respected coach former champion Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer bounced back from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to chalk up multiple wins which put him as the top contender to face Usyk before he suffered defeat to Wardley.
After Parker returned a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings is underway.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was administered through Vada on October 25th.
- Parker is confronting disciplinary action from the sport.
- His promotional team released a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry has been in progress about the situation.
