New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Suspension Following Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a doping test conducted on the day he faced 11th-round loss versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
The British boxer and Parker engaged in a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital in late October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had been next in line to meet Usyk after compiling a remarkable six consecutive victories, yet put his mandatory challenger status on the line during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Along with Potential Consequences
A standard screening given to Joseph Parker via Vada the day of the match showed an adverse result and now leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued a statement stating: "The agency alerted all required parties about Parker tested positive after an anti-doping test administered on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment will be made for now."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion six years ago before he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
The fighter remained an active participant across the United Kingdom since then, having eight matches overall in Britain and moving to the Irish capital for preparation with esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories positioning him front of the queue to challenge the champion before he lost against Wardley.
After Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results is underway.
- The boxer failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The test was conducted through Vada on the fight day.
- Parker is confronting a potential ban from the sport.
- His representatives released a comment acknowledging the positive test.
- A review is currently in progress about the situation.
