Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification After Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a drugs test carried out the same day of his 11th-round loss versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Implications
Wardley together with Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital in late October to establish the identity of the next in line for the WBO to unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the leading contender to face the champion subsequent to stringing together an impressive six wins in a row, but placed his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in London and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Plus Potential Consequences
A routine test conducted on the boxer through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released an announcement stating: "The agency informed everyone involved about Parker had a positive result subsequent to a doping test administered on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned currently."
Career Background
Parker was crowned heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he surrendered the WBO title by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
The fighter remained a regular competitor on British soil after that, having eight matches in total in Britain and moving to Ireland for preparation alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer bounced back from his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to achieve several successes positioning him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk until he was defeated to the British fighter.
After the boxer produced a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was conducted by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter could receive a possible suspension from boxing.
- His representatives has issued a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently in progress into the matter.
