New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Suspension Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive during a doping test administered on the day he fought in 11th-round defeat versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Fight and Its Stakes
Wardley along with Parker engaged in an intense contest held in London on 25 October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as next in line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, but put his contender position on the line in London and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding and Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker by Vada on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and now leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives released an announcement which read: "The anti-doping body informed all relevant parties about Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test carried out on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are planned at this time."
Professional History
Joseph Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he surrendered the WBO title via unanimous decision versus British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
The fighter has been an active participant across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts altogether on UK territory and transferring to the Irish capital for preparation under highly regarded trainer former champion Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to secure several successes that placed him as the top contender to challenge the champion before he lost to Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The examination was administered by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from the sport.
- His promotional team released a comment confirming the failed examination.
- A review has been underway about the situation.
