Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Disqualification Following Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample as part of a drugs test conducted on the day of his 11th-round defeat against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Implications
Wardley and the New Zealander were part of a pulsating encounter in London on 25 October to determine who would become WBO mandatory challenger against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the primary candidate to meet Oleksandr Usyk following compiling a notable six consecutive victories, however put his shot at the title in jeopardy during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on the boxer through Vada the day of the match came back positive and now leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to clear his name.
His promotion team released an announcement which read: "The anti-doping body alerted everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following a drug screening administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned for now."
Professional History
Parker became world champion back in 2016 until he surrendered the WBO title through a points decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Joseph Parker has been a regular competitor across the United Kingdom since then, fighting eight times in total in Britain and moving to Dublin for fight camps alongside respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories positioning him as the top contender to meet the champion until he was defeated against Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has been started.
- Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The screening took place via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from competition.
- His representatives has issued an announcement addressing the adverse finding.
- An investigation is currently in progress into the matter.
