Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Suspension After Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding during a doping test conducted the very day he faced 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match Plus the Consequences
Wardley along with the New Zealander participated in an intense bout staged in the UK capital in late October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously the leading contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to compiling an impressive six-fight winning streak, however placed his contender position on the line in London and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Plus Implications
An ordinary examination conducted on Joseph Parker by the anti-doping organization the day he fought came back positive and now leaves Parker facing a challenge to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives issued a communique which read: "The agency notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive after an anti-doping test carried out on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned currently."
Career Background
Joseph Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion six years ago before he was defeated for his WBO belt via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
The fighter remained an active participant across the United Kingdom from that point, having eight matches in total on UK territory and transferring to Dublin for training camps with respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback against British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories that placed him front of the queue to challenge the champion prior to he was defeated to Wardley.
After the boxer produced a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- The boxer tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter could receive a possible suspension from the sport.
- Queensberry has issued a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway into the matter.
