Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification After Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample in a anti-doping examination carried out the very day of his 11th-round defeat to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Stakes
Wardley along with Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating contest held in London last October to determine who would become next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been next in line to face Usyk subsequent to compiling a remarkable six wins in a row, yet put his shot at the title at stake in the UK and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Plus Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination given to Joseph Parker through Vada the day of the match came back positive and leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued an announcement declaring: "The anti-doping body alerted all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result following an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments will be made at this time."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 before he surrendered his WBO belt via unanimous decision to British star Joshua in Wales two years later.
The fighter became an active participant in the UK from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and relocating to Ireland for fight camps with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker recovered from his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes that placed him at the front of the line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk prior to he was defeated to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome is underway.
- Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The test was conducted via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- The fighter now faces disciplinary action from the sport.
- His promotional team has issued a statement confirming the adverse finding.
- A review is now ongoing into the matter.
