New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification After Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding in a doping test conducted the very day he fought in 11th-round loss versus UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Implications
Fabio Wardley and Parker were part of an intense encounter in London on 25 October to determine the next next in line for the WBO facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously next in line to meet Usyk following stringing together an impressive six consecutive victories, however put his shot at the title in jeopardy during the bout and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination and Implications
A standard screening given to the boxer by Vada the day of the match returned positive and now leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives released a communique which read: "The agency alerted all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a doping test conducted on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are forthcoming at this time."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he lost his WBO belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
The fighter became an active participant across the United Kingdom from that point, competing in eight bouts in total on UK territory and moving to Dublin for training camps under esteemed mentor former champion Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Guided by Lee, the boxer bounced back from the 2022 setback against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve a string of victories positioning him as the top contender to face the champion until he suffered defeat to Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings has commenced.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was conducted via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Parker could receive a possible suspension from the sport.
- Queensberry has issued a statement addressing the failed examination.
- An investigation is currently in progress into the matter.
