New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Disqualification Following Failed Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination conducted the very day of his 11th-round stoppage versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Consequences
Wardley together with Parker participated in a pulsating contest in London on 25 October to decide the identity of the mandatory WBO contender facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as the primary candidate to challenge Usyk subsequent to stringing together a notable six consecutive victories, but placed his shot at the title in jeopardy in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes
A routine test administered to Joseph Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match returned positive and leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to clear his name.
His promotion team issued a statement declaring: "Vada informed all required parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive after a doping test conducted on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are forthcoming at this time."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer was crowned heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he lost his championship belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
The fighter became an active participant in the UK since then, fighting eight times in total in the UK and relocating to Dublin for training camps under respected coach former champion Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback to Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories that placed him as the top contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk prior to he lost to the British fighter.
After Parker returned a failed test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome is underway.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The test was conducted by Vada on the fight day.
- Parker is confronting a possible suspension from boxing.
- Queensberry has issued a comment acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry has been underway about the situation.
