New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Suspension Due to Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a doping test carried out the same day of his 11th-round loss against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
The British boxer along with Parker were part of a thrilling encounter held in London on 25 October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to face Usyk following stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, however placed his mandatory challenger status on the line in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test Along with Implications
An ordinary examination administered to Joseph Parker by the anti-doping organization the day he fought returned positive which leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team published a communique which read: "The agency notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no more comments are forthcoming currently."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion in 2016 until he was defeated for his WBO belt via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor in the UK from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and transferring to Ireland for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 against British heavyweight Joyce to secure several successes positioning him front of the queue to face the champion prior to he was defeated to Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a failed test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The test was administered via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Parker now faces disciplinary action from boxing.
- His promotional team published a comment addressing the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry has been ongoing into the matter.
