New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Disqualification After Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination carried out the very day he fought in 11th-round defeat against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Implications
The British boxer together with Parker participated in a pulsating encounter held in London on 25 October to decide the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously next in line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following compiling a remarkable six-fight winning streak, yet put his contender position at stake in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test and Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination administered to Parker by Vada the day he fought came back positive which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released an announcement which read: "Vada informed everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a doping test conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are forthcoming at this time."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago before he was defeated for his championship belt by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
Joseph Parker remained an active participant across the United Kingdom after that, fighting eight times altogether in the UK and relocating to Dublin for training camps alongside highly regarded trainer former champion Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories which put him as the top contender to face the champion before he suffered defeat against Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe about the test outcome is underway.
- Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The screening took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- The fighter could receive disciplinary action from boxing.
- Queensberry published a comment addressing the adverse finding.
- A review is currently underway into the matter.
