Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification Following Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a drugs test administered the same day he faced 11th-round defeat to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match Plus the Implications
Fabio Wardley together with Parker were part of a pulsating bout held in London last October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as next in line to meet the champion subsequent to compiling a notable six wins in a row, yet put his shot at the title at stake in the UK and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Along with Implications
A standard screening given to Parker by the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout came back positive and now leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to prove his innocence.
His promotion team issued an announcement declaring: "The anti-doping body notified everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive after a drug screening carried out on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no more comments are planned for now."
Career Background
Joseph Parker earned the title of titleholder six years ago prior to he lost his championship belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts altogether in the UK and moving to the Irish capital for preparation alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, the boxer bounced back from his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him at the front of the line to face Usyk prior to he was defeated to the British fighter.
Following Parker's sample showed an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe into the findings is underway.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The screening was administered via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- The fighter now faces a potential ban from competition.
- Queensberry published a comment confirming the failed examination.
- A review is now underway about the situation.