Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a drugs test administered the same day of his 11th-round defeat against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Stakes
Wardley together with Parker were part of a thrilling contest held in London last October to determine who would become WBO mandatory challenger facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the primary candidate to challenge Usyk after compiling a notable six-fight winning streak, however put his mandatory challenger status on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Along with Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination administered to the boxer through Vada on the day of the bout returned positive and leaves Parker with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives published an announcement which read: "The agency notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive after a doping test conducted on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment will be made at this time."
Career Background
Joseph Parker became world champion six years ago before he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts altogether on UK territory and relocating to the Irish capital for fight camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him as the top contender to challenge the champion before he lost to the British fighter.
Following Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings is underway.
- Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The examination was conducted via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
- Queensberry has issued a comment confirming the positive test.
- A review is now in progress into the matter.
