New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Suspension Due to Positive Drugs Test
Joseph Parker tested positive during a anti-doping examination administered on the day he faced 11th-round defeat against British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley and Joseph Parker participated in a thrilling contest staged in the UK capital last October to establish the identity of the next in line for the WBO against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to face Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to stringing together an impressive six consecutive victories, but put his contender position at stake during the bout and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test and Implications
A routine test administered to Joseph Parker through the anti-doping organization the day he fought returned positive and now leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company published a communique which read: "The anti-doping body notified all relevant parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result following an anti-doping test conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no further statements are planned at this time."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned heavyweight champion back in 2016 until he lost the WBO title via unanimous decision to British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
The fighter became an active participant across the United Kingdom from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
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 the champion prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a failed test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has commenced.
- Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening was administered via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker now faces disciplinary action from competition.
- Queensberry published a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A review is currently in progress into the matter.
