New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Suspension Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample as part of a drugs test carried out the very day he faced 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Implications
The British boxer together with Joseph Parker were part of a thrilling bout staged in the UK capital last October to decide who would become WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge Usyk after putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, yet placed his contender position in jeopardy in the UK and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker via the anti-doping organization the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves Parker with a battle to clear his name.
His promotion team published an announcement stating: "Vada alerted all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made currently."
Professional History
Joseph Parker became titleholder six years ago prior to he lost his WBO belt via unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Wales two years later.
The fighter has been an active participant in the UK after that, fighting eight times altogether in Britain and relocating to Ireland for training camps alongside highly regarded trainer former champion Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins positioning him front of the queue to face Oleksandr Usyk until he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry into the findings is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The test was administered by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker could receive a possible suspension from competition.
- His promotional team has issued a statement addressing the adverse finding.
- An investigation has been in progress about the situation.
