New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Suspension Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive during a drugs test carried out the same day of his 11th-round loss against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Implications
Fabio Wardley along with the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling contest in London in late October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the primary candidate to face Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to compiling a remarkable six wins in a row, yet risked his mandatory challenger status on the line during the bout and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test and Implications
An ordinary examination administered to the boxer through Vada the day he fought came back positive which leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company published an announcement stating: "The agency alerted all required parties about Parker had a positive result following an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are forthcoming currently."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion six years ago until he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision to British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Joseph Parker became an active participant in the UK after that, competing in eight bouts in total in the UK and relocating to Dublin for training camps under respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories positioning him at the front of the line to challenge the champion until he was defeated to the British fighter.
Subsequent to the boxer produced an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation regarding the results is underway.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter now faces a possible suspension from competition.
- His promotional team published a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review is currently ongoing into the matter.
