Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Suspension After Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination administered the same day he faced 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander participated in an intense bout held in London on 25 October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger facing unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had been the primary candidate to face the champion after compiling a remarkable six-fight winning streak, but placed his mandatory challenger status on the line during the bout and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Along with Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination given to the boxer by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought showed an adverse result and now leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
His promotion team published a statement which read: "The agency alerted all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive after an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are planned at this time."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago prior to he surrendered the WBO title through a points decision versus British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
Parker has been an active participant on British soil after that, fighting eight times altogether in the UK and relocating to Dublin for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
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Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer overcame his defeat in 2022 to British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes positioning him at the front of the line to meet Usyk before he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker now faces a potential ban from the sport.
- Queensberry released an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- A review has been in progress about the situation.
