New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification Following Failed Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive as part of a doping test administered the very day he faced 11th-round defeat against UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout and Its Consequences
Wardley and the New Zealander were part of a pulsating contest in London last October to determine who would become WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been the primary candidate to challenge the champion after putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, but risked his contender position in jeopardy in London and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Plus Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination administered 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 released a statement declaring: "The anti-doping body notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are planned for now."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he lost his championship belt by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Parker has been an active participant in the UK from that point, competing in eight bouts overall in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for preparation with respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame the 2022 setback versus British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him at the front of the line to meet Oleksandr Usyk until he lost to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has been started.
- Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The examination was administered by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter now faces disciplinary action from the sport.
- Queensberry published a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently ongoing about the situation.
