Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Potential Suspension After Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive in a anti-doping examination administered the very day of his 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with Joseph Parker engaged in an intense bout held in London last October to determine the next mandatory WBO contender to unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter was previously the primary candidate to face Oleksandr Usyk after compiling an impressive six-fight winning streak, yet risked his shot at the title at stake in London and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test and Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on the boxer through Vada the day of the match showed an adverse result and now leaves Parker facing a challenge to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives published a communique stating: "Vada alerted all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test administered on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements will be made currently."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he lost his championship belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018.
Parker became a regular competitor on British soil after that, having eight matches in total on UK territory and moving to the Irish capital for training camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
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Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins that placed him at the front of the line to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned a positive test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The examination was administered by Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter now faces a potential ban from boxing.
- His promotional team published a statement confirming the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now underway regarding the case.
