Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Suspension After Failed Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive in a anti-doping examination administered on the day of his 11th-round stoppage versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match Plus the Consequences
The British boxer along with Parker participated in an intense contest in London last October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO against unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to face the champion after stringing together a notable six consecutive victories, yet risked his contender position at stake in the UK and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding and Possible Outcomes
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker via the anti-doping organization the day he fought came back positive which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team issued an announcement which read: "The anti-doping body notified all relevant parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a doping test administered on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements are planned at this time."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion in 2016 before he was defeated for the WBO title through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Joseph Parker has been a regular competitor on British soil since then, having eight matches overall in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for preparation alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins which put him as the top contender to face Oleksandr Usyk prior to he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
Following Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has commenced.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was conducted via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- The fighter could receive a possible suspension from competition.
- Queensberry published an announcement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review is now in progress about the situation.
