New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Suspension Following Failed Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample as part of a doping test administered on the day he fought in 11th-round loss versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Stakes
Wardley along with Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating contest held in London in late October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger facing unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, yet risked his shot at the title at stake in the UK and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Plus Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on Joseph Parker via the anti-doping organization the day he fought showed an adverse result which leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team issued a statement stating: "Vada notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments are planned for now."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned world champion back in 2016 before he surrendered his WBO belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
Parker has been a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts overall in Britain and transferring to Dublin for preparation with respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame the 2022 setback against British heavyweight Joyce to secure several successes that placed him as the top contender to face Usyk before he lost to Wardley.
Following the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe into the findings has commenced.
- Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The test was conducted by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker is confronting disciplinary action from competition.
- His promotional team has issued a comment confirming the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now in progress into the matter.
