New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification Following Failed Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample in a doping test administered the same day he fought in 11th-round defeat to English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Stakes
The British boxer together with Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating bout held in London in late October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the primary candidate to meet Usyk after stringing together a notable six consecutive victories, however put his shot at the title at stake during the bout and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding and Possible Outcomes
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought came back positive and leaves Parker in a difficult position to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives published a statement which read: "Vada notified everyone involved about Parker returned an adverse finding after an anti-doping test administered on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment are planned currently."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer became heavyweight champion in 2016 before he lost the WBO title through a points decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
The fighter became a frequent visitor on British soil since then, competing in eight bouts altogether in the UK and relocating to Ireland for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer overcame his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him as the top contender to meet Usyk before he lost to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker returned a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has been started.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was administered through Vada on the fight day.
- Parker now faces disciplinary action from the sport.
- His representatives released an announcement addressing the failed examination.
- A review is now underway about the situation.
