New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Suspension After Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a anti-doping examination conducted the same day of his 11th-round loss to English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling bout in London last October to determine the next mandatory WBO contender facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge Usyk following putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, however placed his shot at the title on the line in the UK and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Plus Implications
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker by Vada on the day of the bout showed an adverse result which leaves Parker with a battle to clear his name.
His promotion team released an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body alerted all relevant parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result following a drug screening administered on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no additional comment will be made currently."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 prior to he surrendered the WBO title via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018.
Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor on British soil from that point, competing in eight bouts overall in Britain and relocating to the Irish capital for training camps under respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories positioning him front of the queue to meet Usyk before he lost to Wardley.
Following Parker returned a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has commenced.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The examination was conducted via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Parker could receive a possible suspension from boxing.
- His promotional team released a statement confirming the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently ongoing into the matter.