New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Disqualification Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding during a anti-doping examination conducted on the day he fought in 11th-round loss to UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Plus the Consequences
The British boxer along with the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling contest staged in the UK capital on 25 October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been next in line to face Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to compiling an impressive six consecutive victories, but placed his mandatory challenger status on the line in London and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes
A routine test administered to Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought came back positive and leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team released a statement declaring: "Vada alerted all required parties about Parker tested positive following a drug screening conducted on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are forthcoming for now."
Professional History
Joseph Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion back in 2016 before he lost his WBO belt by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Parker became a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts in total on UK territory and transferring to Ireland for fight camps with esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories positioning him front of the queue to face Usyk until he lost to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe into the findings is underway.
- The boxer tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The examination took place by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter could receive a possible suspension from the sport.
- His representatives published a comment addressing the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry has been in progress into the matter.
