New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Disqualification Following Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample as part of a anti-doping examination administered the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Consequences
Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital in late October to decide who would become mandatory WBO contender against unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been next in line to face Oleksandr Usyk after stringing together an impressive six wins in a row, yet risked his mandatory challenger status on the line in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding and Potential Consequences
A routine test given to the boxer through Vada the day of the match came back positive which leaves Parker in a difficult position to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company issued an announcement declaring: "The agency notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result following a drug screening administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no further statements will be made currently."
Professional History
Joseph Parker earned the title of titleholder in 2016 until he lost his championship belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
The fighter has been a regular competitor on British soil after that, competing in eight bouts altogether on UK territory and relocating to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer overcame the 2022 setback to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories which put him at the front of the line to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results is underway.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada on the fight day.
- The fighter is confronting a possible suspension from boxing.
- Queensberry has issued a comment acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry has been in progress regarding the case.
