New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Suspension Following Failed Drugs Test
Joseph Parker tested positive in a drugs test carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Consequences
Fabio Wardley together with Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating contest in London on 25 October to determine who would become next in line for the WBO against reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to challenge Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to putting together an impressive six consecutive victories, however placed his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in London and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Plus Potential Consequences
A routine test given to Joseph Parker by the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout came back positive and now leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company published a statement stating: "The agency alerted all relevant parties that Joseph Parker tested positive after an anti-doping test administered on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements will be made for now."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of world champion back in 2016 before he surrendered his WBO belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018.
The fighter remained a regular competitor in the UK from that point, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and transferring to Dublin for preparation under esteemed mentor former champion Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Parker recovered from his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him as the top contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk prior to he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has been started.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The examination took place via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Parker is confronting a possible suspension from boxing.
- Queensberry released a comment acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is now ongoing regarding the case.
