New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Suspension Due to Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination administered the very day he fought in 11th-round stoppage versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Wardley along with Parker participated in an intense contest staged in the UK capital last October to determine the next mandatory WBO contender against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the leading contender to meet the champion after putting together an impressive six consecutive victories, however risked his mandatory challenger status at stake in the UK and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening administered to the boxer through Vada on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company published a statement declaring: "Vada informed all relevant parties about Parker had a positive result following an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment are planned for now."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 until he surrendered his WBO belt via unanimous decision to British star Joshua in Wales two years later.
Joseph Parker remained an active participant in the UK since then, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and transferring to Ireland for training camps alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to achieve a string of victories positioning him front of the queue to meet Usyk before he suffered defeat against Wardley.
After Parker returned an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has been started.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a potential ban from the sport.
- Queensberry released an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway into the matter.
