Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Suspension After Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive in a anti-doping examination carried out the very day he fought in 11th-round defeat to English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Implications
Fabio Wardley along with the New Zealander engaged in a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital last October to establish who would become next in line for the WBO facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to face the champion subsequent to compiling an impressive six-fight winning streak, but put his contender position in jeopardy in the UK and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding and Possible Outcomes
A routine test administered to Joseph Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves Parker in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company issued an announcement stating: "The agency notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no more comments are forthcoming at this time."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion back in 2016 until he lost the WBO title via unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker remained a regular competitor in the UK after that, having eight matches altogether in the UK and moving to Dublin for training camps with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker recovered from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to achieve a string of victories positioning him at the front of the line to face the champion prior to he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results is underway.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The test was conducted via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- The fighter is confronting disciplinary action from boxing.
- His representatives released an announcement confirming the positive test.
- A review is now underway into the matter.
