Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Potential Suspension Due to Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a doping test carried out the same day he faced 11th-round defeat versus British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Stakes
Wardley together with Parker were part of a pulsating bout held in London in late October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously the leading contender to face Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to stringing together a remarkable six wins in a row, but risked his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Plus Implications
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued a communique stating: "The agency alerted everyone involved about Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test administered on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no more comments will be made for now."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker was crowned world champion in 2016 until he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Wales two years later.
Parker remained a regular competitor in the UK since then, fighting eight times altogether in Britain and moving to Dublin for preparation under respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories positioning him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk before he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has commenced.
- Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The examination took place through Vada on October 25th.
- Parker now faces a potential ban from competition.
- Queensberry published a comment confirming the positive test.
- A review is now underway regarding the case.
