New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Disqualification After Positive Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding as part of a drugs test carried out on the day of his 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight and Its Stakes
The British boxer and Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating contest held in London on 25 October to decide the next mandatory WBO contender against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the leading contender to face Oleksandr Usyk following putting together an impressive six consecutive victories, but put his shot at the title in jeopardy in the UK and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Along with Potential Consequences
A routine test conducted on Parker by the anti-doping organization the day he fought showed an adverse result which leaves Parker facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives issued an announcement declaring: "Vada informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a doping test carried out on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements will be made currently."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder in 2016 until he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Parker has been a regular competitor on British soil since then, competing in eight bouts in total in Britain and moving to the Irish capital for preparation with highly regarded trainer former champion Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to secure several successes which put him front of the queue to meet the champion until he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
Following the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The examination took place by Vada on the fight day.
- Parker now faces a potential ban from boxing.
- Queensberry has issued an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- A review has been in progress about the situation.
