Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Suspension After Positive Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a drugs test carried out the very day he faced 11th-round defeat versus English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Stakes
The British boxer and the New Zealander participated in a thrilling contest in London last October to establish who would become mandatory WBO contender against unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter was previously the primary candidate to meet Oleksandr Usyk after stringing together a remarkable six wins in a row, but risked his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy during the bout and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding and Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination administered to the boxer by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result which leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives published an announcement which read: "The anti-doping body informed all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result following a doping test conducted on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are planned currently."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion six years ago until he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker became an active participant in the UK after that, having eight matches in total in Britain and transferring to the Irish capital for preparation alongside respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories positioning him as the top contender to meet the champion prior to he was defeated to the British fighter.
After Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings has been started.
- Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The test was conducted through Vada on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from boxing.
- His representatives released an announcement confirming the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is now in progress regarding the case.
