Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification After Positive Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a anti-doping examination administered the very day of his 11th-round loss versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander were part of a thrilling bout in London on 25 October to determine the identity of the next in line for the WBO facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to face the champion subsequent to stringing together an impressive six wins in a row, however placed his shot at the title at stake in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding and Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on Joseph Parker via Vada the day of the match showed an adverse result which leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team issued a statement declaring: "Vada notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result subsequent to a doping test conducted on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment will be made at this time."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer was crowned heavyweight champion back in 2016 before he surrendered the WBO title via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
The fighter became an active participant across the United Kingdom from that point, fighting eight times in total in the UK and relocating to Ireland for fight camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes positioning him front of the queue to meet the champion before he was defeated against Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings is underway.
- Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The test was administered through Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter is confronting a possible suspension from competition.
- His promotional team released a statement confirming the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry has been ongoing into the matter.