New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Potential Disqualification Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample in a drugs test carried out the same day of his 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
Fabio Wardley and Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating encounter held in London last October to decide who would become mandatory WBO contender facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously next in line to face Usyk after putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, yet risked his shot at the title on the line in the UK and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination and Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination administered to Joseph Parker through Vada the day of the match returned positive and now leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
His promotion team published an announcement which read: "Vada notified all relevant parties that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test administered on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are planned currently."
Professional History
Joseph Parker became titleholder six years ago prior to he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision versus British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
Joseph Parker became a regular competitor in the UK from that point, competing in eight bouts altogether in the UK and moving to Dublin for fight camps with esteemed mentor former champion Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes which put him as the top contender to face the champion before he was defeated to Wardley.
After Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- The boxer tested positive for a banned substance.
- The examination took place by Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker now faces a potential ban from the sport.
- His promotional team published an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- An investigation has been in progress about the situation.
