New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification After Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a doping test administered on the day he fought in 11th-round stoppage versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander engaged in a pulsating bout in London on 25 October to establish the next next in line for the WBO facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as next in line to face the champion following compiling a notable six consecutive victories, however risked his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy during the bout and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Plus Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination conducted on the boxer by Vada on the day of the bout returned positive which leaves Parker facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives released a statement declaring: "The agency notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are forthcoming currently."
Professional History
Joseph Parker earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 before he surrendered his WBO belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Joseph Parker became a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom from that point, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for training camps with respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
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Guided by Lee, Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to achieve several successes which put him as the top contender to face the champion before he suffered defeat against Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings is underway.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The examination was administered through Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter now faces disciplinary action from competition.
- His promotional team published a statement confirming the failed examination.
- An investigation has been underway into the matter.
