Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Suspension Due to Failed Drugs Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a drugs test administered the very day of his 11th-round stoppage versus English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout and Its Stakes
Wardley and Parker participated in a pulsating encounter held in London in late October to determine the next mandatory WBO contender facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the primary candidate to face Usyk following compiling an impressive six wins in a row, yet put his contender position at stake during the bout and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding Along with Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination administered to Joseph Parker through Vada the day he fought returned positive which leaves Parker with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team published a communique which read: "The anti-doping body notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result after an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no more comments are forthcoming for now."
Career Background
Joseph Parker became world champion six years ago before he was defeated for his WBO belt by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Parker remained a regular competitor on British soil since then, fighting eight times overall in the UK and transferring to Ireland for fight camps with respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
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Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins that placed him as the top contender to face the champion until he lost against Wardley.
Following the boxer produced an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The screening took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- The fighter could receive disciplinary action from the sport.
- His promotional team published a comment acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A review has been in progress into the matter.