Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Suspension Due to Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding in a drugs test carried out on the day of his 11th-round defeat to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Stakes
Wardley and the New Zealander participated in a thrilling encounter in London in late October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the leading contender to challenge the champion after stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, yet placed his shot at the title at stake during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Plus Possible Outcomes
A routine test administered to the boxer via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match came back positive and now leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives issued a communique stating: "Vada informed all required parties about Parker tested positive subsequent to a doping test administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no further statements will be made at this time."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer became titleholder back in 2016 prior to he surrendered the WBO title by unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Wales in 2018.
Parker has been a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, fighting eight times overall in the UK and moving to Ireland for training camps alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer bounced back from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories which put him front of the queue to meet Usyk prior to he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome is underway.
- The boxer tested positive for a banned substance.
- The examination was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter could receive a potential ban from the sport.
- His promotional team has issued an announcement acknowledging the failed examination.
- An investigation is now underway into the matter.
