Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Possible Suspension After Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a drugs test administered on the day he faced 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Stakes
Wardley together with Joseph Parker were part of a thrilling encounter staged in the UK capital in late October to establish who would become next in line for the WBO against unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker was previously the leading contender to challenge the champion after putting together a remarkable six wins in a row, however risked his shot at the title on the line in the UK and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Implications
A standard screening conducted on Joseph Parker through the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives issued an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive following a doping test carried out on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no additional comment will be made currently."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned heavyweight champion back in 2016 until he lost the WBO title by unanimous decision to British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker became a regular competitor in the UK since then, having eight matches overall on UK territory and transferring to Ireland for training camps alongside respected coach former champion Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to chalk up multiple wins that placed him front of the queue to face Usyk prior to he lost against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The examination was administered through Vada on October 25th.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from competition.
- Queensberry has issued a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A review has been in progress regarding the case.
