Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Suspension After Failed Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive in a anti-doping examination conducted the very day he fought in 11th-round stoppage versus English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling encounter in London in late October to establish who would become mandatory WBO contender to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to meet the champion subsequent to stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, but put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in London and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test Along with Implications
A standard screening conducted on Parker via the anti-doping organization the day he fought came back positive and leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
His promotion team published a statement stating: "Vada alerted all relevant parties about Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are forthcoming currently."
Professional History
Parker was crowned heavyweight champion six years ago before he surrendered his WBO belt by unanimous decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Joseph Parker has been an active participant in the UK from that point, fighting eight times in total in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps under esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories that placed him at the front of the line to meet the champion until he was defeated to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has been started.
- The boxer tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The screening was conducted via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- The fighter could receive a potential ban from boxing.
- His promotional team has issued a statement confirming the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is currently ongoing into the matter.
