New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Suspension Due to Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding during a drugs test administered on the day he fought in 11th-round loss to English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Implications
Fabio Wardley and Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating bout in London last October to establish the identity of the mandatory WBO contender to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the primary candidate to meet Usyk following compiling an impressive six-fight winning streak, however put his mandatory challenger status at stake in London and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding and Implications
A standard screening given to Joseph Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team published an announcement which read: "The agency informed everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a doping test administered on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are planned for now."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer became heavyweight champion six years ago until he surrendered his WBO belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
The fighter has been an active participant on British soil from that point, competing in eight bouts in total on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for preparation with esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
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Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes positioning him at the front of the line to meet the champion until he was defeated against Wardley.
Following Parker returned a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has commenced.
- The boxer tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening took place through Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from the sport.
- His promotional team published an announcement acknowledging the positive test.
- A formal inquiry has been underway into the matter.
