Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Suspension After Positive Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding in a doping test carried out the very day he faced 11th-round defeat against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Implications
Wardley together with the New Zealander engaged in an intense encounter held in London in late October to decide the next next in line for the WBO facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to meet the champion subsequent to stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, but risked his shot at the title on the line during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Along with Implications
A routine test given to Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match returned positive and leaves Parker in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team published an announcement which read: "Vada informed all required parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result subsequent to a drug screening administered on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are forthcoming at this time."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker became world champion back in 2016 before he surrendered his WBO belt through a points decision to British star Joshua in Wales two years later.
Parker has been an active participant in the UK from that point, fighting eight times in total in the UK and relocating to Ireland for training camps with highly regarded trainer former champion Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Guided by Lee, Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories that placed him front of the queue to face Oleksandr Usyk before he lost to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a failed test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The screening took place via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker now faces a possible suspension from the sport.
- His representatives released a comment confirming the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is now underway into the matter.
