Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Suspension Following Failed Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive during a anti-doping examination administered the same day he fought in 11th-round loss against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Implications
Fabio Wardley together with Joseph Parker engaged in a thrilling bout in London in late October to establish who would become WBO mandatory challenger facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as the leading contender to face the champion following compiling a remarkable six consecutive victories, but placed his contender position on the line in London and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Along with Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker via Vada the day he fought came back positive which leaves Parker with a battle to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company published a communique stating: "The anti-doping body alerted everyone involved that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a doping test conducted on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements will be made for now."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion six years ago until he surrendered the WBO title via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor in the UK since then, fighting eight times in total on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for fight camps alongside respected coach former champion Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to achieve several successes positioning him as the top contender to meet Usyk before he lost to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The examination took place via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- The fighter is confronting disciplinary action from the sport.
- His promotional team has issued a statement confirming the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is now underway into the matter.
