New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Disqualification Following Failed Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination conducted the same day of his 11th-round loss versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Consequences
Wardley along with Parker engaged in a pulsating encounter held in London in late October to decide the next next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been next in line to face Usyk following stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, however put his contender position at stake in London and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Plus Potential Consequences
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker through Vada on the day of the bout came back positive and leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives released an announcement which read: "The anti-doping body notified all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive after a doping test administered on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments will be made for now."
Professional History
Parker was crowned world champion back in 2016 prior to he lost the WBO title via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Parker has been a regular competitor on British soil after that, fighting eight times in total in Britain and transferring to Dublin for fight camps alongside respected coach former champion Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk before he suffered defeat to Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results is underway.
- Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The test was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter is confronting a potential ban from the sport.
- His representatives released an announcement confirming the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway into the matter.
