Joseph Parker Faces Potential Suspension After Positive Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker produced a positive sample in a drugs test carried out the same day he faced 11th-round loss to English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Fight and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley and Parker participated in a thrilling bout staged in the UK capital in late October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker was previously the primary candidate to face Usyk after compiling a notable six consecutive victories, however placed his mandatory challenger status on the line in the UK and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test Along with Potential Consequences
A routine test given to the boxer through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and leaves Parker in a difficult position to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company issued a communique declaring: "The anti-doping body notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a doping test administered on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are forthcoming currently."
Professional History
Joseph Parker earned the title of titleholder six years ago until he surrendered his WBO belt through a points decision against British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Joseph Parker remained a regular competitor on British soil since then, having eight matches altogether in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for preparation with esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories that placed him front of the queue to challenge the champion prior to he lost to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome has been started.
- Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The test was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker is confronting disciplinary action from the sport.
- Queensberry released a comment confirming the positive test.
- An investigation has been underway about the situation.
