Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Suspension Following Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination administered the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Implications
Wardley and Parker participated in a thrilling bout held in London in late October to establish who would become next in line for the WBO against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously the leading contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, yet placed his shot at the title on the line in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Along with Implications
An ordinary examination conducted on the boxer by Vada the day he fought came back positive and leaves Parker in a difficult position to clear his name.
His promotion team released a statement declaring: "The agency notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening carried out on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements are forthcoming for now."
Professional History
Joseph Parker became heavyweight champion in 2016 until he surrendered the WBO title via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Joseph Parker has been a frequent visitor on British soil after that, fighting eight times in total in Britain and moving to the Irish capital for fight camps under respected coach former champion Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker recovered from his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to secure several successes which put him at the front of the line to challenge Usyk until he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
After Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway.
- The boxer failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The screening was conducted via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Parker now faces disciplinary action from competition.
- Queensberry published a comment confirming the adverse finding.
- A review is currently ongoing about the situation.
