Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification Following Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a anti-doping examination carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round defeat against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
The British boxer together with Parker engaged in an intense contest in London in late October to establish the next mandatory WBO contender facing reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been next in line to challenge Usyk subsequent to stringing together an impressive six-fight winning streak, yet put his contender position on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding and Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on Joseph Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to clear his name.
His promotion team released a statement which read: "Vada informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening conducted on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are forthcoming at this time."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker became heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he surrendered his championship belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
The fighter has been an active participant on British soil from that point, having eight matches altogether in Britain and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps under respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to achieve several successes which put him front of the queue to face Usyk until he lost against Wardley.
Following the boxer produced a failed test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The test took place via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- The fighter is confronting a potential ban from competition.
- His representatives published a statement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry has been underway into the matter.
