Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Suspension Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a anti-doping examination carried out the very day of his 11th-round loss versus British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight and Its Stakes
Wardley together with Parker participated in a thrilling bout in London last October to decide the next WBO mandatory challenger against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously the primary candidate to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a remarkable six consecutive victories, however risked his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in London and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test and Possible Outcomes
A routine test given to Joseph Parker via the anti-doping organization the day of the match came back positive and now leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company published a communique stating: "Vada alerted all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive after an anti-doping test carried out on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are forthcoming at this time."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago before he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Joseph Parker has been a frequent visitor in the UK after that, having eight matches altogether on UK territory and transferring to Dublin for fight camps with esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer overcame his defeat in 2022 to British heavyweight Joyce to achieve a string of victories which put him at the front of the line to challenge the champion before he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The screening was conducted by Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker now faces a possible suspension from the sport.
- His promotional team published a comment addressing the positive test.
- A review is now underway about the situation.
