Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification Due to Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample as part of a drugs test conducted on the day of his 11th-round stoppage versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Implications
Wardley and the New Zealander participated in a pulsating bout in London last October to establish who would become next in line for the WBO facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as next in line to face the champion following stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, but put his contender position on the line during the bout and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding and Possible Outcomes
A standard screening given to the boxer by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
His promotion team published an announcement stating: "The agency informed everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a drug screening conducted on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment will be made at this time."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
The fighter has been an active participant in the UK after that, having eight matches altogether in Britain and moving to Dublin for training camps under highly regarded trainer former champion Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories positioning him as the top contender to face Oleksandr Usyk prior to he lost to the British fighter.
Following the boxer produced a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has been started.
- Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The test was conducted by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker now faces a possible suspension from competition.
- His promotional team has issued an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- An investigation has been ongoing regarding the case.
