New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Suspension After Failed Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive in a doping test conducted the same day he faced 11th-round defeat against UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match and Its Implications
Wardley along with Parker participated in an intense bout staged in the UK capital in late October to determine the next next in line for the WBO against unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter was previously the primary candidate to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, yet risked his contender position in jeopardy in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening conducted on Joseph Parker through the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout came back positive which leaves Parker facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives issued a statement which read: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive after a drug screening conducted on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are forthcoming for now."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of world champion in 2016 before he surrendered his championship belt by unanimous decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
The fighter has been an active participant across the United Kingdom after that, fighting eight times altogether in the UK and relocating to Dublin for preparation with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories which put him front of the queue to challenge Oleksandr Usyk prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe into the findings has commenced.
- The boxer tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter now faces a possible suspension from competition.
- His promotional team published a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now ongoing into the matter.
