Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive in a anti-doping examination administered the same day of his 11th-round loss against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker engaged in an intense bout in London in late October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as next in line to meet Usyk after stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, but put his mandatory challenger status at stake during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test Plus Implications
A routine test given to Parker via the anti-doping organization the day he fought came back positive which leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives published a statement stating: "The agency notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive after a doping test carried out on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned for now."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer became heavyweight champion in 2016 until he surrendered his championship belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
Joseph Parker became a frequent visitor on British soil since then, competing in eight bouts altogether on UK territory and transferring to Ireland for preparation alongside respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer recovered from the 2022 setback against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes which put him front of the queue to meet Usyk before he was defeated to the British fighter.
After Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings is underway.
- The boxer tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The test was conducted by Vada on the fight day.
- The fighter now faces a possible suspension from boxing.
- His representatives has issued an announcement addressing the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently ongoing regarding the case.
