Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Suspension Due to Failed Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding in a drugs test carried out the same day he faced 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Stakes
Wardley and the New Zealander participated in a thrilling contest staged in the UK capital in late October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the primary candidate to challenge the champion subsequent to stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, yet risked his contender position at stake in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test and Possible Outcomes
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker via Vada the day of the match returned positive and now leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team published a statement stating: "The agency notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a doping test administered on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are forthcoming at this time."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 until he surrendered his championship belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
The fighter has been a regular competitor on British soil from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether in the UK and moving to Dublin for preparation with highly regarded trainer former champion Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him at the front of the line to meet Oleksandr Usyk until he lost to Wardley.
Following Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe regarding the results is underway.
- Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The screening took place through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter could receive disciplinary action from boxing.
- Queensberry released an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry has been in progress regarding the case.
