New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Disqualification Due to Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a drugs test carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match and Its Consequences
The British boxer along with Parker participated in a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital in late October to decide the next WBO mandatory challenger to unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following compiling a remarkable six wins in a row, yet risked his mandatory challenger status on the line in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination and Potential Consequences
A standard screening conducted on Joseph Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives published a communique stating: "The agency notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a doping test carried out on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment are forthcoming for now."
Career Background
Parker was crowned titleholder in 2016 until he surrendered his WBO belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
The fighter remained a frequent visitor in the UK after that, having eight matches altogether in the UK and relocating to Dublin for preparation under respected coach former champion Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins positioning him front of the queue to challenge Oleksandr Usyk before he lost to Wardley.
After Parker returned a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The screening was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker now faces a potential ban from the sport.
- His representatives released a comment confirming the positive test.
- An investigation has been in progress into the matter.
