New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Suspension Following Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding during a anti-doping examination administered on the day of his 11th-round loss versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Consequences
The British boxer along with the New Zealander engaged in a pulsating encounter in London in late October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously next in line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, but placed his mandatory challenger status at stake in London and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Implications
An ordinary examination conducted on the boxer through Vada the day of the match came back positive and now leaves Parker with a battle to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company issued an announcement stating: "The agency informed all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive after a doping test carried out on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment will be made at this time."
Professional History
Parker became heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Joseph Parker became a regular competitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts in total in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for fight camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer recovered from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to secure several successes which put him at the front of the line to challenge Usyk before he lost against Wardley.
After the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The screening was administered through Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker now faces disciplinary action from the sport.
- His representatives released a comment acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry has been in progress regarding the case.
