Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Suspension After Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample as part of a anti-doping examination administered the very day he faced 11th-round stoppage against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Implications
Wardley along with Joseph Parker participated in a thrilling contest in London on 25 October to establish who would become next in line for the WBO facing unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter was previously next in line to meet Oleksandr Usyk after putting together a remarkable six wins in a row, however risked his contender position on the line in the UK and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding and Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination given to Joseph Parker via Vada the day he fought showed an adverse result which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company released a communique stating: "Vada notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following a doping test carried out on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no more comments are forthcoming currently."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer became heavyweight champion in 2016 until he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Joseph Parker has been a regular competitor on British soil from that point, having eight matches altogether on UK territory and transferring to Dublin for training camps with respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins which put him at the front of the line to face Usyk prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening was conducted by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter is confronting a potential ban from competition.
- Queensberry published an announcement addressing the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway regarding the case.
