New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Suspension Due to Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a anti-doping examination conducted the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Stakes
The British boxer together with Joseph Parker engaged in a thrilling encounter held in London on 25 October to determine the next next in line for the WBO to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker was previously the primary candidate to challenge the champion after stringing together a notable six consecutive victories, however put his shot at the title in jeopardy in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding and Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination administered to Joseph Parker through Vada on the day of the bout returned positive which leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives published a statement declaring: "The agency informed all relevant parties about Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening conducted on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment are forthcoming for now."
Professional History
Joseph Parker became titleholder back in 2016 until he lost his WBO belt via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
The fighter became an active participant across the United Kingdom after that, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor former champion Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories positioning him as the top contender to meet Usyk prior to he was defeated to the British fighter.
Following Parker returned a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe regarding the results has been started.
- The boxer failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The screening took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- The fighter now faces a possible suspension from the sport.
- Queensberry has issued an announcement addressing the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is now ongoing regarding the case.
