Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Disqualification Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination administered on the day he faced 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Implications
Wardley together with Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating bout held in London last October to decide who would become WBO mandatory challenger against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously next in line to meet Usyk following stringing together a notable six consecutive victories, but put his mandatory challenger status on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination and Potential Consequences
A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker via the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout came back positive and leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives released a statement stating: "The agency informed all required parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result following a doping test conducted on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no further statements are planned currently."
Professional History
Parker was crowned world champion six years ago before he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
The fighter remained an active participant in the UK after that, fighting eight times altogether in the UK and moving to Dublin for preparation with highly regarded trainer former champion Lee in recent years.
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Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from his 2022 loss versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories positioning him at the front of the line to meet Usyk prior to he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a potential ban from boxing.
- His representatives has issued an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A review has been underway into the matter.
