New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification After Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample as part of a anti-doping examination administered on the day of his 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Implications
Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker were part of a pulsating bout staged in the UK capital in late October to decide the next mandatory WBO contender against reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the primary candidate to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, however risked his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in the UK and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination and Possible Outcomes
A routine test given to the boxer via Vada the day of the match came back positive which leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives issued an announcement declaring: "The agency alerted everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result subsequent to a doping test carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no further statements will be made currently."
Career Background
Joseph Parker earned the title of titleholder six years ago before he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Parker remained an active participant in the UK after that, fighting eight times overall in Britain and moving to the Irish capital for training camps alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 to Joe Joyce to achieve several successes which put him as the top contender to face Oleksandr Usyk prior to he lost against Wardley.
After the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The examination took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive a potential ban from the sport.
- His representatives released an announcement acknowledging the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is currently ongoing into the matter.
