Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Potential Suspension Following Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a drugs test conducted the same day he fought in 11th-round defeat versus British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Consequences
The British boxer along with the New Zealander engaged in a pulsating contest held in London last October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the primary candidate to challenge the champion following putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, however put his contender position at stake in the UK and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Plus Possible Outcomes
A standard screening given to Parker via the anti-doping organization the day he fought showed an adverse result which leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team released a communique which read: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a drug screening carried out on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements are forthcoming for now."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer was crowned titleholder six years ago prior to he surrendered the WBO title through a points decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
The fighter became a frequent visitor on British soil from that point, having eight matches in total on UK territory and moving to Dublin for preparation under esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer bounced back from his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to achieve multiple wins that placed him front of the queue to face Usyk prior to he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker returned an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The screening was administered by Vada on the fight day.
- The fighter could receive disciplinary action from competition.
- His representatives published an announcement addressing the positive test.
- A review is currently underway into the matter.
