New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification After Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample as part of a doping test carried out on the day of his 11th-round stoppage against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Implications
Fabio Wardley and Parker engaged in a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital on 25 October to establish the identity of the mandatory WBO contender to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter was previously the primary candidate to face Usyk subsequent to compiling a remarkable six consecutive victories, yet risked his contender position at stake during the bout and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding and Potential Consequences
A routine test given to Joseph Parker by Vada the day of the match came back positive and leaves Parker in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives published a statement declaring: "The agency alerted everyone involved about Parker had a positive result after a doping test carried out on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made for now."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer was crowned heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he was defeated for his WBO belt by unanimous decision against British star Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Parker has been a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom after that, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps under esteemed mentor former champion Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories that placed him front of the queue to face Oleksandr Usyk until he lost to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The examination was administered by Vada on the fight day.
- Parker is confronting disciplinary action from boxing.
- Queensberry has issued a statement confirming the positive test.
- An investigation is now ongoing into the matter.
