Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Suspension Following Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding during a drugs test administered the very day he fought in 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
Wardley along with the New Zealander participated in a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital in late October to determine the identity of the mandatory WBO contender to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the leading contender to meet the champion after stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, however placed his shot at the title on the line during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Plus Implications
An ordinary examination given to Parker by the anti-doping organization the day of the match came back positive which leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team released a communique declaring: "The agency notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no additional comment will be made currently."
Career Background
Parker earned the title of world champion in 2016 before he lost the WBO title through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
The fighter has been a regular competitor in the UK from that point, fighting eight times overall in the UK and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation with respected coach former champion Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer bounced back from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to secure several successes positioning him at the front of the line to challenge the champion prior to he was defeated to the British fighter.
Following Parker's sample showed a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome is underway.
- The boxer tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The examination took place through Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter is confronting a potential ban from the sport.
- His representatives published a comment confirming the positive test.
- A review is now underway into the matter.