New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Suspension After Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a drugs test conducted the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating contest in London in late October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO against undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as next in line to face Usyk following stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, but risked his shot at the title at stake in the UK and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Plus Possible Outcomes
A routine test administered to Joseph Parker via the anti-doping organization the day of the match came back positive and now leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team issued an announcement which read: "The anti-doping body alerted everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening administered on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments will be made currently."
Professional History
Parker became titleholder six years ago before he surrendered his WBO belt through a points decision to British star Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Parker became a frequent visitor on British soil since then, competing in eight bouts in total in Britain and relocating to Dublin for training camps with highly regarded trainer former champion Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him at the front of the line to meet the champion before he suffered defeat against Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome is underway.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The examination took place by Vada on the fight day.
- The fighter could receive a potential ban from boxing.
- His representatives has issued an announcement acknowledging the failed examination.
- An investigation has been ongoing into the matter.
