New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Disqualification Following Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a doping test administered the same day he fought in 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
The British boxer along with Parker engaged in a thrilling encounter staged in the UK capital last October to establish who would become WBO mandatory challenger facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously the primary candidate to face Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to stringing together a remarkable six consecutive victories, yet put his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Plus Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination given to Joseph Parker through Vada on the day of the bout came back positive which leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued a communique stating: "The anti-doping body notified all relevant parties that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments will be made currently."
Career Background
Joseph Parker earned the title of world champion back in 2016 until he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision versus British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Joseph Parker has been an active participant on British soil from that point, having eight matches altogether in Britain and moving to the Irish capital for training camps with respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to achieve multiple wins that placed him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk prior to he lost to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The test took place by Vada on the fight day.
- The fighter is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
- His representatives released an announcement confirming the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway into the matter.
