New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Suspension After Failed Doping Test

Joseph Parker tested positive during a anti-doping examination carried out the very day he faced 11th-round defeat against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.

The Bout Plus the Consequences

The British boxer together with Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital last October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.

The fighter had positioned himself as next in line to challenge Usyk after putting together a notable six consecutive victories, but placed his mandatory challenger status on the line in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.

Failed Examination Along with Possible Outcomes

A routine test administered to the boxer via Vada the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to prove his innocence.

Parker's promotional company issued an announcement declaring: "The anti-doping body notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result after a drug screening conducted on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no more comments will be made for now."

Career Background

Joseph Parker earned the title of titleholder in 2016 until he lost the WBO title via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018.

The fighter remained an active participant across the United Kingdom from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether in the UK and moving to Dublin for preparation with esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.

Recent Developments

Guided by Lee, Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to achieve multiple wins that placed him as the top contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk prior to he suffered defeat to the British fighter.

Following Parker returned a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.

• Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
• The screening took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
• Joseph Parker could receive a potential ban from boxing.
• His representatives released an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding.
• A review is currently underway regarding the case.