New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Suspension After Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a drugs test conducted the same day he faced 11th-round loss to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Implications
Wardley together with the New Zealander were part of an intense contest held in London last October to determine who would become next in line for the WBO facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge the champion following putting together an impressive six consecutive victories, however put his contender position on the line during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Plus Possible Outcomes
A standard screening given to the boxer via Vada on the day of the bout returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to prove his innocence.
His promotion team released a communique declaring: "The agency notified all required parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no further statements will be made at this time."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion back in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his WBO belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Parker became a regular competitor in the UK after that, competing in eight bouts altogether on UK territory and moving to the Irish capital for preparation alongside respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, the boxer overcame his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories which put him at the front of the line to face the champion before he suffered defeat to Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was administered via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Parker now faces disciplinary action from competition.
- His representatives released a comment acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is now in progress into the matter.
