New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification After Failed Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive as part of a drugs test administered on the day he fought in 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight and Its Stakes
The British boxer along with the New Zealander were part of a pulsating contest held in London in late October to establish who would become mandatory WBO contender to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to meet the champion following compiling an impressive six consecutive victories, however put his shot at the title at stake in London and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Plus Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on the boxer by the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout showed an adverse result which leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team issued an announcement declaring: "The agency informed everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments are forthcoming for now."
Career Background
Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago before he lost the WBO title via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Parker remained a frequent visitor in the UK since then, fighting eight times altogether on UK territory and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories positioning him at the front of the line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk until he was defeated against Wardley.
Following Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has been started.
- Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The test was administered by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter is confronting disciplinary action from the sport.
- His representatives released an announcement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review is now ongoing about the situation.
