New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification After Failed Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding during a anti-doping examination carried out on the day he faced 11th-round loss versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Consequences
The British boxer and Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating bout staged in the UK capital last October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO to unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the leading contender to meet the champion subsequent to putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, however placed his shot at the title in jeopardy during the bout and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Along with Potential Consequences
A routine test administered to Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought showed an adverse result and now leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company released an announcement stating: "The agency notified all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test conducted on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are forthcoming currently."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion six years ago until he was defeated for his WBO belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Joseph Parker has been an active participant on British soil from that point, competing in eight bouts in total in the UK and moving to Ireland for preparation alongside respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
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Coached by Andy Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes which put him as the top contender to face the champion until he was defeated to the British fighter.
After Parker returned a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has been started.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The screening was administered via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a possible suspension from boxing.
- Queensberry published a statement acknowledging the positive test.
- An investigation is now in progress regarding the case.
