Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Suspension Due to 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 to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley along with Parker engaged in a pulsating encounter in London on 25 October to determine the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the leading contender to face Usyk following putting together a notable six wins in a row, however risked his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Plus Possible Outcomes
A standard screening given to the boxer by Vada the day of the match showed an adverse result and now leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives issued a statement which read: "The anti-doping body alerted everyone involved about Parker had a positive result subsequent to a drug screening conducted on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned for now."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned world champion back in 2016 until he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
The fighter has been an active participant on British soil since then, fighting eight times altogether in the UK and relocating to Dublin for training camps with esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, the boxer overcame his 2022 loss versus British heavyweight Joyce to secure several successes which put him front of the queue to challenge Usyk until he was defeated to the British fighter.
After Parker returned a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry into the findings is underway.
- The boxer failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The test was administered by Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive a potential ban from boxing.
- His promotional team released a comment confirming the positive test.
- A review has been underway about the situation.
