Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification Following Failed Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a drugs test administered the very day of his 11th-round loss to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight and Its Consequences
Wardley along with the New Zealander participated in a thrilling bout staged in the UK capital last October to determine the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger to unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been the primary candidate to face Usyk after compiling a notable six wins in a row, yet placed his contender position at stake during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test and Implications
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout showed an adverse result which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives released a statement declaring: "The anti-doping body alerted all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening administered on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are planned currently."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned heavyweight champion six years ago before he was defeated for his WBO belt by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
The fighter remained a regular competitor on British soil after that, fighting eight times in total in Britain and relocating to Ireland for preparation alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker overcame the 2022 setback against British heavyweight Joyce to secure several successes positioning him front of the queue to meet Usyk prior to he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings has been started.
- The boxer failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The examination took place through Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker now faces a potential ban from the sport.
- His representatives published an announcement acknowledging the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is currently in progress into the matter.
