Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Suspension Due to Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding in a drugs test conducted the same day he faced 11th-round loss versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Consequences
The British boxer together with the New Zealander engaged in a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital in late October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following stringing together an impressive six wins in a row, but risked his shot at the title at stake in London and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Plus Possible Outcomes
A standard screening conducted on the boxer via Vada the day he fought came back positive and leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to clear his name.
His promotion team issued a communique stating: "Vada alerted all relevant parties about Parker returned an adverse finding following a doping test carried out on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are forthcoming for now."
Career Background
Joseph Parker earned the title of world champion back in 2016 before he was defeated for his championship belt through a points decision against British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
The fighter remained a regular competitor across the United Kingdom after that, having eight matches in total in the UK and transferring to Dublin for preparation with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to secure several successes positioning him as the top contender to face Usyk until he was defeated against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned a failed test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The examination was administered via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from the sport.
- His representatives has issued a statement confirming the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway regarding the case.