Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Suspension Following Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a doping test administered on the day of his 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Consequences
Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating encounter held in London in late October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to meet Usyk following stringing together a remarkable six consecutive victories, yet put his shot at the title on the line during the bout and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test and Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on Parker through the anti-doping organization the day of the match returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company published a statement declaring: "Vada alerted all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result following a doping test carried out on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements will be made at this time."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder back in 2016 until he surrendered his WBO belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker has been a regular competitor on British soil after that, fighting eight times altogether in Britain and relocating to Ireland for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer bounced back from his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins which put him front of the queue to meet the champion before he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a failed test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has commenced.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The screening was conducted by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from boxing.
- Queensberry published a statement confirming the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently ongoing into the matter.
