New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Possible Suspension Following Failed Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination administered the very day he faced 11th-round defeat against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
Wardley and Joseph Parker were part of a thrilling encounter held in London last October to determine the next next in line for the WBO to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had been next in line to face the champion subsequent to stringing together an impressive six consecutive victories, but placed his contender position in jeopardy in London and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Implications
A routine test conducted on Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company released an announcement declaring: "Vada notified all relevant parties about Parker had a positive result following a doping test conducted on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned for now."
Professional History
Joseph Parker earned the title of world champion back in 2016 until he lost his championship belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Parker has been a frequent visitor in the UK since then, fighting eight times altogether in Britain and transferring to Dublin for fight camps under respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins positioning him front of the queue to meet Usyk prior to he was defeated to the British fighter.
Following Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway.
- The boxer tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The screening took place via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from boxing.
- His representatives has issued a comment acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review is now in progress regarding the case.
