New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample in a doping test carried out on the day of his 11th-round defeat against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match Plus the Stakes
Wardley together with the New Zealander engaged in a pulsating contest held in London last October to determine who would become WBO mandatory challenger facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the primary candidate to challenge Oleksandr Usyk after putting together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, yet put his mandatory challenger status at stake in London and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Plus Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on the boxer by the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout came back positive and now leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company published an announcement which read: "The anti-doping body informed everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive after a doping test administered on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no more comments will be made for now."
Professional History
Parker became world champion six years ago prior to he surrendered his championship belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018.
Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts overall in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor former champion Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins positioning him as the top contender to challenge Usyk before he lost against Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has commenced.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The screening took place by Vada on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker now faces disciplinary action from competition.
- Queensberry has issued a statement addressing the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry has been ongoing regarding the case.
