Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Disqualification Following Failed Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive as part of a doping test carried out the same day he faced 11th-round defeat versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Implications
Wardley and the New Zealander engaged in a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital in late October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to face the champion following stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, yet put his mandatory challenger status on the line in the UK and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Plus Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on the boxer through the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout returned positive and now leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
His promotion team issued an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body informed everyone involved that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no more comments are forthcoming at this time."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer became titleholder six years ago before he lost his championship belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
The fighter remained a frequent visitor in the UK since then, having eight matches in total in Britain and relocating to Ireland for training camps alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, the boxer bounced back from his 2022 loss versus British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him at the front of the line to face Usyk until he lost to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned a failed test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings has commenced.
- Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening was conducted by Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter now faces a possible suspension from the sport.
- Queensberry published a statement confirming the adverse finding.
- An investigation is currently in progress about the situation.
