Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Suspension After Failed Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding during a anti-doping examination administered the very day of his 11th-round loss versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Consequences
Wardley and the New Zealander were part of a thrilling encounter held in London last October to decide the next WBO mandatory challenger facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to meet the champion subsequent to putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, however risked his contender position at stake during the bout and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Along with Potential Consequences
A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker by the anti-doping organization the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company released an announcement which read: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result after a doping test administered on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments will be made at this time."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer was crowned heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his WBO belt by unanimous decision versus British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
Joseph Parker became an active participant in the UK from that point, having eight matches overall in Britain and relocating to the Irish capital for training camps alongside respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to achieve a string of victories positioning him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk until he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Following the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has commenced.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The screening was administered through Vada on the fight day.
- Parker is confronting disciplinary action from boxing.
- His representatives has issued an announcement addressing the adverse finding.
- A review is now underway about the situation.
