New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Disqualification Due to Failed Drugs Test
Joseph Parker tested positive as part of a doping test carried out on the day he fought in 11th-round loss versus English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Plus the Consequences
Fabio Wardley together with Joseph Parker participated in an intense contest in London last October to establish the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as next in line to face Usyk after putting together a remarkable six wins in a row, but risked his contender position at stake during the bout and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Along with Implications
An ordinary examination conducted on Joseph Parker through the anti-doping organization the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives released a communique which read: "The agency informed all relevant parties about Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening carried out on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no more comments are planned currently."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago before he lost his championship belt through a points decision against British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Parker has been a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, fighting eight times in total in Britain and relocating to the Irish capital for training camps with esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
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Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to secure several successes which put him front of the queue to challenge Usyk before he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The screening was administered via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- Parker is confronting a potential ban from competition.
- His promotional team has issued a statement addressing the adverse finding.
- A review has been ongoing about the situation.
