Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification Following Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a doping test conducted on the day of his 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Fight and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating bout in London in late October to establish the next mandatory WBO contender against unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had been the leading contender to challenge the champion after putting together a remarkable six consecutive victories, but risked his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination and Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match came back positive which leaves Parker with a battle to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives released a communique which read: "The agency informed everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker had a positive result after an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements are forthcoming currently."
Professional History
Parker became heavyweight champion in 2016 until he lost his championship belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
Joseph Parker remained a regular competitor in the UK since then, fighting eight times in total in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for training camps under esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him front of the queue to face the champion before he was defeated to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has been started.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The test was conducted via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- The fighter is confronting a potential ban from competition.
- His representatives has issued a comment acknowledging the positive test.
- A formal inquiry has been in progress regarding the case.
