Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Possible Suspension Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a drugs test administered the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Consequences
The British boxer and the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling bout held in London last October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to challenge the champion after stringing together a remarkable six consecutive victories, yet placed his mandatory challenger status on the line in the UK and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Plus Potential Consequences
A routine test administered to Joseph Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought showed an adverse result which leaves Parker with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team issued an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive following a drug screening conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments are planned currently."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer was crowned heavyweight champion six years ago before he was defeated for his championship belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
The fighter has been a regular competitor in the UK from that point, fighting eight times in total in Britain and transferring to Dublin for fight camps with respected coach former champion Lee over the past few years.
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Guided by Lee, Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him as the top contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk prior to he was defeated to the British fighter.
Following Parker returned a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has been started.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The screening was administered via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive a possible suspension from the sport.
- Queensberry published a statement addressing the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway about the situation.
