Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding during a doping test conducted the very day he faced 11th-round loss to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Stakes
Wardley together with the New Zealander were part of a thrilling encounter staged in the UK capital in late October to decide the next mandatory WBO contender against unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the leading contender to face the champion after putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, but placed his shot at the title in jeopardy in the UK and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Plus Potential Consequences
A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker via Vada on the day of the bout returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives published a statement stating: "Vada notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a drug screening conducted on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment are forthcoming currently."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned heavyweight champion six years ago until he lost his WBO belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
Joseph Parker became a regular competitor on British soil after that, fighting eight times overall in Britain and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside respected coach former champion Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to secure several successes which put him front of the queue to face the champion until he was defeated against Wardley.
Following Parker returned a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation into the findings is underway.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The examination was administered by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a possible suspension from competition.
- His promotional team has issued an announcement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry has been ongoing regarding the case.
