Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Suspension After Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding during a anti-doping examination administered the very day of his 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Consequences
Wardley together with the New Zealander engaged in an intense bout staged in the UK capital last October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO to unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the primary candidate to meet the champion after stringing together an impressive six consecutive victories, however placed his shot at the title in jeopardy during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding and Possible Outcomes
A standard screening given to Joseph Parker by Vada the day of the match came back positive and now leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives issued a statement declaring: "The agency alerted everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments will be made for now."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion six years ago before he lost his WBO belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Parker remained an active participant across the United Kingdom since then, having eight matches overall in Britain and relocating to Dublin for training camps with esteemed mentor former champion Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve a string of victories that placed him as the top contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk before he lost against Wardley.
Following the boxer produced an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings has commenced.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The screening took place by Vada on October 25th.
- Parker could receive a possible suspension from the sport.
- His promotional team released a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- An investigation is now in progress about the situation.
