Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Suspension After Positive Anti-Doping Test

The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination administered the very day of his 11th-round defeat versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.

The Match Plus the Implications

Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander participated in an intense contest held in London in late October to establish the identity of the next in line for the WBO facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.

Joseph Parker had been next in line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following compiling an impressive six consecutive victories, however put his shot at the title at stake in London and experienced an 11th-round defeat.

Failed Examination and Implications

A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match returned positive and now leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.

The boxer's representatives released a communique which read: "The agency informed all required parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result after a drug screening carried out on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are planned currently."

Professional History

Parker became world champion in 2016 before he surrendered his WBO belt via unanimous decision versus British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later.

Parker has been a regular competitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts overall in Britain and transferring to Dublin for fight camps under esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.

Recent Developments

Coached by Andy Lee, Parker recovered from his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk prior to he lost against Wardley.

Following Parker returned a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe into the findings is underway.

• Joseph Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
• The test took place via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
• The fighter is confronting disciplinary action from boxing.
• Queensberry released a comment confirming the failed examination.
• A formal inquiry has been in progress regarding the case.