New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding during a drugs test administered on the day he faced 11th-round stoppage against UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout and Its Implications
The British boxer and Parker engaged in a thrilling contest staged in the UK capital in late October to decide the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously next in line to face Oleksandr Usyk after putting together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, yet put his mandatory challenger status at stake in London and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Along with Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination administered to the boxer via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team issued an announcement stating: "The anti-doping body informed all relevant parties about Parker had a positive result following a drug screening carried out on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment will be made at this time."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 until he surrendered the WBO title via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
The fighter remained an active participant across the United Kingdom from that point, competing in eight bouts overall in the UK and transferring to Ireland for preparation under esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to achieve several successes positioning him as the top contender to face Usyk prior to he lost to Wardley.
After the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter now faces a potential ban from competition.
- Queensberry released a comment addressing the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry has been in progress about the situation.
