New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification After Failed Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding in a anti-doping examination carried out on the day he fought in 11th-round stoppage to English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match and Its Consequences
The British boxer and the New Zealander participated in a pulsating encounter held in London in late October to establish the identity of the WBO mandatory challenger against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been next in line to face Usyk after putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, but risked his shot at the title at stake in London and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test and Potential Consequences
A routine test given to Parker via Vada the day of the match came back positive which leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives published an announcement stating: "The agency informed all relevant parties about Parker returned an adverse finding after a doping test carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no further statements will be made at this time."
Professional History
Parker was crowned heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he was defeated for his WBO belt via unanimous decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Parker has been a frequent visitor on British soil from that point, fighting eight times in total in the UK and relocating to Dublin for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer bounced back from his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories which put him at the front of the line to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he suffered defeat to Wardley.
After Parker returned a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has been started.
- Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The test took place via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from competition.
- His promotional team has issued a statement addressing the positive test.
- An investigation is now underway into the matter.
