New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Suspension After Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample in a doping test conducted the very day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Wardley along with Joseph Parker were part of a pulsating encounter in London in late October to determine who would become WBO mandatory challenger against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to meet Usyk following compiling a remarkable six consecutive victories, however placed his mandatory challenger status on the line in London and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Plus Implications
A routine test administered to the boxer via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought returned positive which leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued an announcement which read: "The anti-doping body informed all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned at this time."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker became world champion back in 2016 until he was defeated for the WBO title through a points decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
Parker remained a regular competitor in the UK after that, having eight matches altogether in the UK and moving to Ireland for training camps alongside highly regarded trainer former champion Lee during this period.
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Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him at the front of the line to challenge Usyk prior to he suffered defeat to Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started.
- Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The test was administered via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Parker now faces disciplinary action from the sport.
- His representatives has issued an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- An investigation is now underway about the situation.
