Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification After Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a doping test carried out the same day of his 11th-round loss to UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Implications
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander participated in a thrilling contest in London in late October to decide the next next in line for the WBO facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as next in line to meet the champion after stringing together an impressive six wins in a row, yet placed his shot at the title in jeopardy in the UK and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Potential Consequences
A routine test conducted on the boxer through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result and now leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team issued a communique declaring: "Vada informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result following an anti-doping test conducted on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments will be made at this time."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion back in 2016 until he was defeated for his championship belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Joseph Parker has been a frequent visitor in the UK from that point, competing in eight bouts overall in the UK and moving to Ireland for training camps under esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, the boxer bounced back from his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes that placed him front of the queue to challenge the champion before he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker could receive a possible suspension from the sport.
- Queensberry has issued a comment addressing the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is now in progress about the situation.
