Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Suspension After Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a doping test conducted on the day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley along with Parker were part of an intense bout held in London in late October to decide who would become mandatory WBO contender facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the primary candidate to challenge the champion subsequent to stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, however put his contender position on the line in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on the boxer via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match came back positive which leaves Parker with a battle to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company issued a statement declaring: "Vada alerted all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result after a drug screening administered on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no additional comment will be made currently."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 before he surrendered his championship belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
The fighter has been a regular competitor on British soil from that point, having eight matches in total in Britain and transferring to Dublin for fight camps with respected coach former champion Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins positioning him at the front of the line to challenge Usyk until he suffered defeat against Wardley.
After Parker returned a positive test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings is underway.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The examination was administered through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a possible suspension from boxing.
- His representatives has issued an announcement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway into the matter.
