New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification Following Failed Doping Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample as part of a drugs test carried out the very day of his 11th-round stoppage versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Implications
Fabio Wardley and Parker engaged in a thrilling contest in London on 25 October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the leading contender to face Oleksandr Usyk after compiling a remarkable six consecutive victories, but risked his contender position at stake during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test and Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on Parker by the anti-doping organization the day he fought returned positive which leaves Parker facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company issued a communique which read: "The agency informed all relevant parties about Parker tested positive following a doping test conducted on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are forthcoming for now."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker became titleholder in 2016 before he lost his championship belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
Joseph Parker has been a regular competitor in the UK since then, competing in eight bouts in total on UK territory and moving to the Irish capital for preparation with highly regarded trainer former champion Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins positioning him front of the queue to face Oleksandr Usyk until he was defeated against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The examination was administered by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from the sport.
- Queensberry released an announcement addressing the failed examination.
- A review is now in progress regarding the case.
