New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Suspension Due to Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a doping test conducted the very day he fought in 11th-round loss versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Implications
Wardley and Parker engaged in a pulsating encounter held in London last October to establish the next next in line for the WBO to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been next in line to challenge the champion subsequent to stringing together an impressive six consecutive victories, yet risked his shot at the title at stake in London and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding Plus Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on the boxer by Vada the day of the match showed an adverse result and now leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team issued an announcement declaring: "The anti-doping body notified everyone involved about Parker returned an adverse finding following a doping test conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are planned at this time."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer was crowned titleholder six years ago before he lost his championship belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Parker became an active participant across the United Kingdom from that point, competing in eight bouts in total in Britain and transferring to Dublin for preparation with respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to chalk up multiple wins which put him as the top contender to face the champion prior to he was defeated to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a failed test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has been started.
- The boxer tested positive for a banned substance.
- The examination took place through Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter is confronting a possible suspension from competition.
- His representatives released an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now ongoing into the matter.