Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification Following Failed Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample as part of a anti-doping examination carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Consequences
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander participated in an intense contest in London in late October to establish the next mandatory WBO contender facing unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as next in line to face Usyk following stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, but placed his mandatory challenger status on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Along with Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination given to Parker by the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives issued a statement declaring: "Vada notified everyone involved about Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a drug screening conducted on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are forthcoming currently."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer became titleholder six years ago before he was defeated for his WBO belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
The fighter has been a regular competitor on British soil from that point, fighting eight times in total in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer bounced back from his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins which put him at the front of the line to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he lost against Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started.
- The boxer failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The screening was administered by Vada on October 25th.
- Parker is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
- His promotional team has issued a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A review is now in progress regarding the case.
