New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification Due to Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination conducted on the day of his 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Implications
Fabio Wardley together with Parker participated in a pulsating contest in London last October to decide who would become WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to face Oleksandr Usyk following compiling a notable six consecutive victories, yet risked his mandatory challenger status on the line in the UK and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Plus Implications
A standard screening conducted on Joseph Parker by 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 clear his name.
Parker's promotional company issued an announcement stating: "The agency notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive after an anti-doping test administered on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment will be made for now."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of titleholder six years ago before he lost his WBO belt via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Parker has been a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom after that, competing in eight bouts altogether in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for training camps under esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer bounced back from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him as the top contender to meet the champion until he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has commenced.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The test was administered through Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker now faces a potential ban from boxing.
- His promotional team has issued an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry has been in progress regarding the case.
