Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification Following Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a doping test administered the very day he faced 11th-round defeat to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley and Joseph Parker were part of a thrilling contest in London in late October to decide who would become WBO mandatory challenger against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously next in line to challenge the champion after putting together a notable six wins in a row, however put his contender position at stake during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Along with Implications
An ordinary examination given to the boxer by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought returned positive and leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company issued a communique which read: "The agency informed all relevant parties about Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made at this time."
Career Background
Joseph Parker earned the title of world champion back in 2016 prior to he lost his WBO belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Parker remained an active participant in the UK from that point, having eight matches altogether in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for training camps alongside respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback versus British heavyweight Joyce to achieve multiple wins that placed him front of the queue to meet Oleksandr Usyk until he was defeated to Wardley.
After Parker returned a positive test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The examination took place via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from boxing.
- His promotional team has issued an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- A review is now underway into the matter.
