Joseph Parker Faces Potential Disqualification Following Failed Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive as part of a drugs test carried out on the day he fought in 11th-round loss against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match Plus the Stakes
Wardley along with the New Zealander engaged in a pulsating encounter held in London in late October to establish the next mandatory WBO contender against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge the champion after compiling a notable six-fight winning streak, but placed his contender position on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening conducted on Joseph Parker by the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout returned positive and now leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team published an announcement declaring: "Vada notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test administered on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are forthcoming for now."
Boxing Journey
Parker was crowned heavyweight champion back in 2016 until he surrendered his championship belt by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
Joseph Parker remained a regular competitor across the United Kingdom after that, fighting eight times in total in Britain and moving to Dublin for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback versus Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes that placed him at the front of the line to challenge the champion before he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
After the boxer produced an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has commenced.
- The boxer tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The examination was administered via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker now faces a potential ban from the sport.
- His representatives has issued a statement addressing the failed examination.
- An investigation is currently ongoing regarding the case.
