New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Suspension Due to Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding during a drugs test conducted the same day of his 11th-round stoppage against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Consequences
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander engaged in a pulsating encounter held in London last October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger facing unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been next in line to face Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to putting together a notable six wins in a row, however risked his shot at the title at stake in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Implications
An ordinary examination given to the boxer via Vada on the day of the bout returned positive which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company published a communique stating: "The anti-doping body notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result subsequent to a drug screening carried out on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements will be made at this time."
Boxing Journey
Parker earned the title of world champion in 2016 prior to he lost his championship belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
Parker became a regular competitor in the UK after that, having eight matches altogether on UK territory and moving to the Irish capital for preparation with respected coach former champion Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer recovered from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to secure several successes which put him front of the queue to challenge the champion prior to he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation into the findings has commenced.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The examination took place through Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a possible suspension from boxing.
- Queensberry published an announcement confirming the positive test.
- An investigation has been ongoing into the matter.
