Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification After Positive Doping Test
Joseph Parker produced a positive sample as part of a doping test administered the same day he faced 11th-round defeat to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Implications
Wardley together with the New Zealander were part of a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital in late October to establish the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the leading contender to challenge the champion following putting together an impressive six wins in a row, but placed his shot at the title on the line during the bout and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Along with Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination given to the boxer via the anti-doping organization the day of the match came back positive and now leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company published a communique which read: "The anti-doping body notified all relevant parties about Parker tested positive after an anti-doping test carried out on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no additional comment will be made currently."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his championship belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Joseph Parker became an active participant on British soil after that, competing in eight bouts in total on UK territory and transferring to Ireland for training camps under respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Guided by Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve a string of victories which put him front of the queue to face Oleksandr Usyk before he lost against Wardley.
After Parker returned a positive test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome is underway.
- The boxer failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The examination took place through Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker now faces a possible suspension from competition.
- His promotional team has issued a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now ongoing into the matter.
