Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Suspension Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding in a anti-doping examination administered on the day of his 11th-round stoppage versus UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Consequences
Wardley and the New Zealander engaged in an intense bout staged in the UK capital in late October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously the primary candidate to meet the champion after putting together a remarkable six consecutive victories, however put his mandatory challenger status on the line during the bout and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Plus Potential Consequences
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker via the anti-doping organization the day he fought came back positive which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
His promotion team published a statement stating: "The agency notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening carried out on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are planned currently."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion six years ago until he was defeated for the WBO title through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
The fighter remained an active participant in the UK after that, fighting eight times overall in the UK and relocating to Ireland for preparation under respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to achieve several successes positioning him front of the queue to challenge the champion prior to he lost to the British fighter.
Following Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has commenced.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The screening was conducted by Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker now faces a potential ban from boxing.
- Queensberry has issued a comment acknowledging the positive test.
- An investigation is currently ongoing into the matter.
