New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification Due to Failed Doping Test
Joseph Parker produced a positive sample during a drugs test conducted the very day he fought in 11th-round defeat versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Consequences
Wardley and the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling encounter held in London in late October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the primary candidate to challenge Usyk following putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, however put his shot at the title on the line in London and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Plus Implications
An ordinary examination administered to Parker through the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued a statement stating: "Vada informed everyone involved about Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a drug screening carried out on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements are forthcoming currently."
Boxing Journey
Parker was crowned titleholder back in 2016 before he lost his championship belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
The fighter has been a regular competitor on British soil from that point, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and relocating to the Irish capital for preparation with esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories which put him at the front of the line to meet the champion until he lost to Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has commenced.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The screening took place through Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from boxing.
- His promotional team has issued a comment addressing the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is now underway into the matter.
