Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Suspension Following Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a drugs test administered on the day of his 11th-round loss versus British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Consequences
Wardley and Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating encounter held in London in late October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to meet the champion after putting together an impressive six wins in a row, yet risked his mandatory challenger status on the line during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Plus Implications
An ordinary examination administered to Joseph Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released a communique declaring: "The agency informed everyone involved about Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening conducted on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment will be made currently."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion six years ago before he lost his championship belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor in the UK from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether on UK territory and moving to the Irish capital for fight camps with esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, the boxer bounced back from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up several successes positioning him as the top contender to meet the champion before he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The screening took place by Vada on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker is confronting disciplinary action from competition.
- His promotional team has issued an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry has been in progress into the matter.
