Joseph Parker Faces Potential Suspension Following Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a drugs test administered the very day he faced 11th-round stoppage versus British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Consequences
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander were part of a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital last October to establish the next mandatory WBO contender facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as next in line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, but placed his shot at the title at stake during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination and Implications
A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker by the anti-doping organization the day of the match came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives released a statement which read: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test conducted on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are forthcoming currently."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago prior to he surrendered his WBO belt by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Parker remained a frequent visitor in the UK since then, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and transferring to the Irish capital for preparation with highly regarded trainer former champion Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Guided by Lee, Parker recovered from his 2022 loss against British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him as the top contender to face Usyk until he was defeated to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The screening was conducted by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter could receive a potential ban from the sport.
- His promotional team released a comment acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently ongoing regarding the case.
