Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification After Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a anti-doping examination carried out the very day he faced 11th-round stoppage against British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
Wardley along with Parker engaged in an intense contest held in London last October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender facing unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had been the leading contender to face Oleksandr Usyk after compiling a remarkable six-fight winning streak, but risked his mandatory challenger status at stake in London and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening given to Joseph Parker via Vada on the day of the bout showed an adverse result which leaves Parker with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives issued a statement declaring: "The anti-doping body informed all relevant parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result after a drug screening conducted on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are planned at this time."
Boxing Journey
Parker earned the title of world champion back in 2016 prior to he lost his championship belt via unanimous decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and transferring to the Irish capital for training camps with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve multiple wins positioning him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk prior to he was defeated against Wardley.
Following Parker returned a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The test took place through Vada on the fight day.
- Parker now faces disciplinary action from boxing.
- His representatives published a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review is now in progress about the situation.
