Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding during a anti-doping examination administered on the day he fought in 11th-round defeat against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Stakes
The British boxer along with Parker were part of a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital in late October to decide the next mandatory WBO contender against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to challenge Usyk subsequent to putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, yet put his contender position at stake in the UK and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding and Possible Outcomes
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker through Vada the day he fought came back positive which leaves Parker facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives issued a communique declaring: "The anti-doping body informed all relevant parties about Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are forthcoming at this time."
Professional History
Parker became heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he surrendered his championship belt by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales in 2018.
Joseph Parker became an active participant on British soil since then, having eight matches altogether in the UK and moving to Ireland for training camps under respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes which put him as the top contender to meet the champion prior to he was defeated against Wardley.
Following the boxer produced a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The examination was administered through Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter now faces disciplinary action from boxing.
- Queensberry has issued a comment addressing the failed examination.
- A review is now ongoing regarding the case.
