New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification Following Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a drugs test administered the same day he faced 11th-round defeat to British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander participated in an intense contest in London in late October to determine the next mandatory WBO contender against undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been the leading contender to face Usyk following compiling a remarkable six wins in a row, but risked his contender position in jeopardy in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Along with Implications
A routine test conducted on Parker through Vada the day of the match returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives released a statement stating: "The anti-doping body informed all required parties about Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test conducted on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are planned for now."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago before he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
The fighter remained a regular competitor on British soil since then, competing in eight bouts overall in Britain and moving to Dublin for preparation alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve a string of victories positioning him as the top contender to challenge Usyk until he lost to the British fighter.
Following Parker's sample showed an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The screening took place through Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter is confronting a possible suspension from competition.
- His representatives published a statement addressing the failed examination.
- A review is currently in progress regarding the case.