New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Potential Disqualification After Positive Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding in a doping test administered the same day of his 11th-round loss versus UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker were part of a thrilling bout staged in the UK capital last October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the primary candidate to face Usyk subsequent to stringing together a remarkable six consecutive victories, yet risked his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination and Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination administered to Joseph Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought came back positive which leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team released a statement declaring: "The agency notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a doping test conducted on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments will be made for now."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his WBO belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Parker remained a frequent visitor in the UK since then, competing in eight bouts overall on UK territory and moving to Ireland for preparation alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss against British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories positioning him as the top contender to face Usyk before he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has commenced.
- The boxer failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The examination was conducted by Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker is confronting disciplinary action from the sport.
- His representatives published a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review is now ongoing regarding the case.
