Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Potential Suspension After Failed Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive in a anti-doping examination carried out the very day of his 11th-round loss against British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Implications
The British boxer along with the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling contest in London last October to establish who would become WBO mandatory challenger to unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker was previously next in line to face Usyk after compiling an impressive six-fight winning streak, however put his contender position on the line during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening administered to Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought showed an adverse result and leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives issued a statement stating: "The anti-doping body notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result after a doping test conducted on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no further statements are planned at this time."
Professional History
Joseph Parker became titleholder back in 2016 until he lost the WBO title via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
The fighter became a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom from that point, fighting eight times altogether on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for fight camps under esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes which put him front of the queue to challenge Usyk prior to he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The test took place via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- The fighter could receive a possible suspension from competition.
- His representatives published an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- A review is now underway into the matter.
