Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification Due to Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive in a anti-doping examination carried out on the day he fought in 11th-round loss against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Implications
Wardley along with Parker engaged in a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital last October to decide who would become WBO mandatory challenger facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been next in line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk after compiling a notable six-fight winning streak, however placed his contender position at stake in London and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Plus Implications
A standard screening conducted on Joseph Parker by Vada the day he fought showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives published a communique declaring: "The agency informed all required parties about Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test carried out on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements will be made currently."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion six years ago until he lost his WBO belt via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018.
The fighter remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom after that, having eight matches in total on UK territory and relocating to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to chalk up multiple wins that placed him front of the queue to meet the champion before he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Following Parker returned a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The examination took place through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker now faces disciplinary action from competition.
- His promotional team published an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- An investigation is now underway into the matter.
