Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Suspension Due to Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a doping test administered on the day of his 11th-round stoppage versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Stakes
The British boxer and Joseph Parker engaged in an intense encounter staged in the UK capital last October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to face Usyk subsequent to putting together an impressive six wins in a row, yet risked his mandatory challenger status at stake in London and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Implications
A routine test administered to Parker by the anti-doping organization the day he fought came back positive which leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team released a communique which read: "The agency notified all required parties about Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a doping test conducted on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are forthcoming currently."
Professional History
Joseph Parker earned the title of world champion six years ago prior to he was defeated for his championship belt by unanimous decision versus British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
The fighter remained a frequent visitor on British soil from that point, having eight matches altogether on UK territory and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps under respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to achieve multiple wins which put him at the front of the line to challenge Usyk prior to he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
After the boxer produced an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was conducted through Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker is confronting disciplinary action from competition.
- His promotional team released an announcement confirming the positive test.
- A review is currently underway regarding the case.