New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Suspension After Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample as part of a drugs test carried out the very day of his 11th-round stoppage against English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Consequences
The British boxer along with Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating bout in London in late October to decide the next next in line for the WBO against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to face Usyk subsequent to compiling a notable six wins in a row, yet put his shot at the title on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening given to Joseph Parker via Vada the day of the match returned positive and now leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company published an announcement declaring: "Vada informed all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following a doping test conducted on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment are planned currently."
Boxing Journey
Parker became world champion in 2016 prior to he surrendered the WBO title via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018.
The fighter became an active participant across the United Kingdom from that point, competing in eight bouts overall in the UK and relocating to Ireland for preparation alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him front of the queue to challenge Oleksandr Usyk before he was defeated to the British fighter.
Following Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The test was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from the sport.
- Queensberry has issued a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now in progress into the matter.
