Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Suspension Following Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample in a drugs test conducted the same day of his 11th-round stoppage versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Stakes
Wardley along with the New Zealander participated in a thrilling bout held in London in late October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as the leading contender to face Usyk following putting together a remarkable six wins in a row, but put his shot at the title at stake during the bout and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Along with Implications
A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker through the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to clear his name.
His promotion team issued a communique which read: "Vada notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no further statements are forthcoming currently."
Professional History
Joseph Parker became titleholder six years ago until he surrendered his WBO belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Parker has been a regular competitor on British soil from that point, having eight matches in total on UK territory and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him front of the queue to face Usyk until he lost against Wardley.
Following Parker returned a failed test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started.
- The boxer tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening took place via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Parker now faces a potential ban from the sport.
- His promotional team published an announcement addressing the adverse finding.
- A review is now underway about the situation.
