Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Suspension After Positive Drugs Test
Joseph Parker produced a positive sample as part of a doping test carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round loss to English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Implications
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander participated in a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital last October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the leading contender to face Usyk after compiling an impressive six consecutive victories, but placed his contender position at stake during the bout and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Along with Potential Consequences
A standard screening administered to Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match came back positive and now leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team issued an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body alerted all required parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result following a drug screening conducted on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made currently."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion six years ago prior to he was defeated for his championship belt by unanimous decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Parker became a frequent visitor in the UK after that, fighting eight times in total in the UK and transferring to Ireland for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, the boxer overcame the 2022 setback to British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes positioning him front of the queue to meet Oleksandr Usyk until he lost to Wardley.
After Parker returned a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results is underway.
- The boxer failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The screening took place through Vada on the fight day.
- Parker could receive disciplinary action from the sport.
- Queensberry published a comment addressing the positive test.
- A review is now underway about the situation.
