New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Suspension Due to Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding during a drugs test administered the very day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Consequences
Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital on 25 October to decide who would become WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as next in line to face the champion following compiling a remarkable six wins in a row, however placed his contender position at stake during the bout and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination and Potential Consequences
A routine test given to Joseph Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match came back positive and now leaves Parker with a battle to clear his name.
His promotion team issued a statement stating: "Vada alerted all relevant parties that Joseph Parker tested positive following a doping test carried out on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are forthcoming at this time."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer became titleholder back in 2016 prior to he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
The fighter remained an active participant in the UK from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation under esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to chalk up multiple wins which put him as the top contender to face Oleksandr Usyk prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings is underway.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The test took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- Parker now faces a potential ban from boxing.
- His promotional team has issued a statement confirming the adverse finding.
- A review is currently in progress about the situation.
