Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification After Positive Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding in a drugs test carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round loss versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Fight and Its Implications
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander engaged in an intense contest staged in the UK capital on 25 October to decide who would become mandatory WBO contender against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously the primary candidate to challenge Usyk following putting together an impressive six consecutive victories, yet placed his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test and Implications
A routine test given to Joseph Parker through Vada on the day of the bout showed an adverse result which leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team released an announcement stating: "The agency notified all relevant parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result following a doping test conducted on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned at this time."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer became heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he surrendered the WBO title via unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker became an active participant across the United Kingdom after that, having eight matches in total in Britain and relocating to Ireland for training camps alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
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Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to secure several successes which put him at the front of the line to challenge the champion until he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Following the boxer produced a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results is underway.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The test was administered by Vada on the fight day.
- Parker could receive a potential ban from competition.
- His promotional team released an announcement confirming the failed examination.
- A review is currently ongoing regarding the case.
