New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Suspension After Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a doping test carried out on the day he faced 11th-round defeat to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Consequences
Wardley along with the New Zealander engaged in an intense contest in London on 25 October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger facing reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as next in line to meet Usyk following compiling a remarkable six-fight winning streak, yet risked his mandatory challenger status at stake in London and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Along with Potential Consequences
A standard screening given to Joseph Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout returned positive and leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives released a communique which read: "Vada informed everyone involved about Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no further statements are forthcoming currently."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of titleholder in 2016 prior to he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom after that, fighting eight times altogether on UK territory and moving to Dublin for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to secure several successes which put him at the front of the line to challenge the champion before he was defeated to the British fighter.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation into the findings has commenced.
- Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The screening was administered through Vada on the fight day.
- The fighter now faces a potential ban from competition.
- Queensberry released a statement confirming the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now underway into the matter.
