New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Suspension After Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a drugs test administered the same day he faced 11th-round loss against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Fight and Its Implications
The British boxer along with Parker participated in an intense contest staged in the UK capital in late October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously the leading contender to face the champion following compiling an impressive six consecutive victories, yet placed his shot at the title on the line in London and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Plus Potential Consequences
A standard screening given to Joseph Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought showed an adverse result which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued a statement which read: "The agency notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a doping test carried out on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are forthcoming at this time."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned world champion back in 2016 before he was defeated for the WBO title through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
The fighter remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether on UK territory and moving to Dublin for preparation with respected coach former champion Lee in recent years.
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Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes that placed him at the front of the line to meet the champion until he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Following Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings is underway.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The test was conducted through Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker now faces a possible suspension from the sport.
- His representatives released a comment addressing the positive test.
- A review is now underway about the situation.
