Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding in a anti-doping examination conducted the very day of his 11th-round defeat versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Consequences
The British boxer and Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating contest held in London last October to determine who would become next in line for the WBO facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to meet the champion subsequent to putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, however risked his mandatory challenger status on the line during the bout and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test and Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination administered to Parker via the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company published an announcement stating: "Vada notified everyone involved about Parker returned an adverse finding after a doping test administered on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no more comments are planned at this time."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer became world champion back in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his championship belt through a points decision against British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Joseph Parker remained a regular competitor across the United Kingdom since then, having eight matches in total on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 versus British heavyweight Joyce to achieve multiple wins positioning him front of the queue to face Usyk until he lost to the British fighter.
After the boxer produced a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The examination was administered via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker now faces disciplinary action from boxing.
- Queensberry has issued a statement addressing the positive test.
- An investigation is now ongoing about the situation.
