New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification After Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a anti-doping examination administered the very day of his 11th-round defeat to British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Stakes
Wardley along with the New Zealander engaged in a pulsating bout in London in late October to determine the next next in line for the WBO against reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to face the champion after stringing together an impressive six consecutive victories, however risked his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in London and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Potential Consequences
A routine test given to Parker through the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout came back positive and now leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team released a statement stating: "The agency informed everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening carried out on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are planned currently."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder back in 2016 before he lost his championship belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker became a frequent visitor in the UK since then, fighting eight times in total in the UK and relocating to Ireland for preparation under highly regarded trainer former champion Lee in recent years.
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Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from the 2022 setback versus Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes which put him at the front of the line to challenge Usyk before he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome has commenced.
- The boxer tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The test took place through Vada on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker now faces a possible suspension from competition.
- His promotional team published an announcement addressing the failed examination.
- A review has been in progress regarding the case.
