Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Suspension Following Positive Anti-Doping Test

The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a anti-doping examination carried out the very day he fought in 11th-round defeat to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.

The Bout Along with Its Consequences

Fabio Wardley along with Parker engaged in an intense bout in London in late October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.

The fighter was previously the leading contender to challenge the champion after stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, yet risked his shot at the title in jeopardy in London and suffered an 11th-round defeat.

Adverse Finding Along with Potential Consequences

A routine test conducted on the boxer by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to clear his name.

Parker's promotional company released a statement which read: "The anti-doping body alerted all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following a doping test conducted on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are forthcoming at this time."

Professional History

Parker became world champion in 2016 until he was defeated for his championship belt by unanimous decision to British star Joshua in Wales in 2018.

Parker has been a regular competitor on British soil from that point, having eight matches in total on UK territory and transferring to Ireland for fight camps under respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.

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Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to achieve multiple wins which put him as the top contender to meet Usyk prior to he was defeated against Wardley.

Following Parker returned a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome is underway.

• Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
• The screening was conducted via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
• Joseph Parker could receive a potential ban from competition.
• His promotional team has issued an announcement addressing the adverse finding.
• A formal inquiry is now ongoing about the situation.