New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Potential Suspension Following Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive during a doping test administered on the day of his 11th-round loss versus English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Plus the Consequences
The British boxer together with Parker participated in an intense contest held in London in late October to establish the identity of the next in line for the WBO against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been the primary candidate to meet Usyk after putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, yet risked his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test and Possible Outcomes
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker via Vada the day he fought showed an adverse result which leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives released a statement declaring: "The agency notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a doping test carried out on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are planned currently."
Career Background
Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he lost his championship belt via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Joseph Parker has been a frequent visitor in the UK from that point, fighting eight times altogether on UK territory and transferring to Ireland for preparation alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from the 2022 setback to British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him front of the queue to meet the champion until he was defeated against Wardley.
After Parker returned a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation regarding the results is underway.
- Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter now faces a potential ban from competition.
- His promotional team published an announcement acknowledging the positive test.
- An investigation is currently in progress about the situation.
