New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Disqualification Due to Failed Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding during a anti-doping examination conducted the same day he faced 11th-round stoppage against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with Parker engaged in an intense contest in London on 25 October to decide the identity of the next in line for the WBO facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as next in line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, however placed his contender position on the line during the bout and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding Along with Implications
An ordinary examination given to the boxer through Vada on the day of the bout returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team published an announcement which read: "The agency notified all relevant parties about Parker tested positive subsequent to a doping test carried out on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are forthcoming at this time."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer became heavyweight champion back in 2016 before he lost his WBO belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Parker became a frequent visitor on British soil after that, competing in eight bouts altogether on UK territory and moving to the Irish capital for training camps with esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker overcame the 2022 setback versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories which put him front of the queue to meet Usyk prior to he was defeated against Wardley.
Following the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has commenced.
- Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The screening was administered via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Parker could receive disciplinary action from boxing.
- His promotional team released an announcement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is now in progress about the situation.
