Joseph Parker Faces Possible Suspension Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive in a anti-doping examination conducted on the day he fought in 11th-round loss versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
The British boxer and Parker participated in a thrilling contest held in London last October to decide who would become WBO mandatory challenger to unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been the primary candidate to challenge Usyk following putting together an impressive six consecutive victories, however put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in London and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Plus Implications
An ordinary examination administered to Joseph Parker by the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives published an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result subsequent to an anti-doping test conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are planned for now."
Professional History
Parker became titleholder in 2016 until he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision to British star Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Parker became a frequent visitor in the UK since then, fighting eight times altogether in Britain and relocating to Dublin for preparation alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes positioning him front of the queue to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he lost against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results is underway.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The examination took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- Parker is confronting disciplinary action from boxing.
- Queensberry released a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now ongoing into the matter.
