Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Suspension After Failed Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive in a drugs test administered the very day he fought in 11th-round defeat versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander participated in an intense contest held in London in late October to decide the next WBO mandatory challenger against reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter was previously the primary candidate to face Usyk after putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, but risked his contender position on the line in the UK and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Plus Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on the boxer through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company issued a communique declaring: "Vada informed all required parties about Parker tested positive after a drug screening conducted on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment will be made currently."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he was defeated for the WBO title via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Parker became a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom after that, fighting eight times overall in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for preparation alongside esteemed mentor former champion Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback versus British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes which put him as the top contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he lost to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe regarding the results has commenced.
- Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The test was conducted through Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker is confronting disciplinary action from boxing.
- Queensberry has issued a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is now in progress regarding the case.
