Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Disqualification Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination administered the same day of his 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Consequences
The British boxer along with Parker were part of a pulsating bout in London on 25 October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the primary candidate to meet Usyk subsequent to putting together a remarkable six wins in a row, but put his contender position in jeopardy in the UK and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Along with Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result which leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives published an announcement which read: "The anti-doping body notified all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are planned currently."
Boxing Journey
Parker became heavyweight champion back in 2016 until he surrendered his WBO belt by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Parker has been a regular competitor in the UK since then, having eight matches altogether on UK territory and transferring to Dublin for fight camps alongside respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories positioning him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk until he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings is underway.
- The boxer tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The screening was administered by Vada on October 25th.
- Parker is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
- His promotional team has issued a comment acknowledging the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway regarding the case.
