New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Disqualification Following Positive Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a drugs test carried out on the day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Consequences
The British boxer and Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital last October to establish the next next in line for the WBO facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker was previously the primary candidate to face Usyk after stringing together a notable six wins in a row, but put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in London and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test and Implications
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker via the anti-doping organization the day of the match came back positive and now leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team issued a statement which read: "Vada notified all relevant parties that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a doping test carried out on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are forthcoming currently."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder in 2016 prior to he surrendered his championship belt via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
The fighter remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, having eight matches altogether on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for fight camps with esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to achieve multiple wins that placed him front of the queue to challenge Usyk until he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has been started.
- Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The test was administered by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from boxing.
- His promotional team published an announcement addressing the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is now in progress regarding the case.