Joseph Parker Tests Positive for Cocaine Ahead of Wardley Fight
Hey everyone, there’s been a shocking development in the boxing world involving former heavyweight champion Joseph Parker. It was revealed recently that Parker tested positive for cocaine on the very day he faced Fabio Wardley last month. The 33-year-old New Zealander, who has had a storied career and is a father of six, was subjected to a drugs test by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency, or VADA, on October 25. The results, released on Friday morning, confirmed the presence of a cocaine metabolite, specifically benzoylecgonine, in his system.
This news has stunned many in the boxing community. A source close to Parker’s camp expressed complete disbelief, especially since this was reportedly the first training camp where Parker had his family around for support. The source described how well the camp had gone and highlighted that Parker put on a solid performance in what was a thrilling fight, even though he ultimately lost to Wardley in the 11th round.
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For context, benzoylecgonine is the inactive metabolite that cocaine is converted into once processed by the body. While the high from cocaine itself disappears within hours, this metabolite can linger in the urine for several days, which means the drug use likely occurred during the critical final days of fight preparation. Parker has the option to have his B-sample tested, but historically, A and B sample results usually match.
This incident has brought attention back to Parker’s career and previous issues with drug testing. He missed a World Boxing Council test in 2017 due to being on holiday, but that was described as an oversight by his promoter at the time. Now, VADA will forward their findings to UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) and the British Boxing Board of Control, who will determine the appropriate sanctions. While cocaine is classified as a recreational drug rather than a performance-enhancing substance, Parker could still face a suspension of up to two years.
Parker, who first became WBO world heavyweight champion in December 2016 by defeating Andy Ruiz, has had a career filled with highs and lows. After defending his title twice, he lost to Anthony Joshua in 2018 and later had mixed results, including victories over notable fighters like Deontay Wilder and Derek Chisora. His defeat to Wardley, now overshadowed by the positive test, has also cost him a potential shot at facing undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk.
As the story develops, boxing fans are left grappling with the implications. Parker is reportedly on holiday following the intense 11-round bout, but the news of this adverse finding is certain to cast a shadow over his career for some time. His relationships in the sport, including friendships with Tyson Fury and other prominent figures, may now come under scrutiny, while fans and analysts alike wait to see what disciplinary measures will follow.
Joseph Parker’s situation is a stark reminder of how quickly things can change in the high-stakes world of professional boxing. From celebrated champion to facing potential suspension, this episode adds another dramatic chapter to the career of one of New Zealand’s most prominent athletes.
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