Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Disqualification After Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a doping test carried out on the day he faced 11th-round stoppage to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Consequences
Wardley and Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating encounter in London last October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously the leading contender to face the champion after compiling an impressive six wins in a row, yet put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in London and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Along with Implications
A routine test conducted on the boxer via Vada on the day of the bout returned positive and now leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company issued a communique stating: "Vada informed all relevant parties that Joseph Parker tested positive after a drug screening conducted on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no additional comment will be made currently."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker became titleholder six years ago prior to he was defeated for the WBO title through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Parker became a frequent visitor in the UK after that, competing in eight bouts overall in Britain and moving to the Irish capital for preparation with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, the boxer bounced back from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories that placed him front of the queue to face Oleksandr Usyk before he lost to Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe about the test outcome is underway.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The test took place through Vada on October 25th.
- Parker now faces a possible suspension from boxing.
- His promotional team released a comment acknowledging the adverse finding.
- An investigation has been ongoing into the matter.
