Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Disqualification After Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination carried out the very day of his 11th-round stoppage versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley along with the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling bout held in London in late October to establish the identity of the next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the leading contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, but placed his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test and Possible Outcomes
A standard screening administered to Parker through Vada the day he fought came back positive and leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released a statement declaring: "Vada alerted everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following a doping test administered on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are planned for now."
Boxing Journey
Parker earned the title of world champion back in 2016 until he surrendered the WBO title by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
Joseph Parker became an active participant in the UK from that point, having eight matches in total in Britain and relocating to the Irish capital for training camps under respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer overcame his defeat in 2022 to British heavyweight Joyce to achieve a string of victories which put him front of the queue to face the champion until he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry into the findings is underway.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The examination was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive a potential ban from the sport.
- His representatives has issued a statement confirming the adverse finding.
- An investigation has been ongoing regarding the case.
