Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification Following Failed Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive in a drugs test carried out the very day he fought in 11th-round defeat to English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Stakes
The British boxer and Parker engaged in an intense contest staged in the UK capital on 25 October to determine who would become next in line for the WBO facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as next in line to meet Usyk subsequent to stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, yet put his shot at the title on the line in London and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Plus Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on the boxer through Vada the day he fought showed an adverse result and now leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives issued a communique declaring: "Vada alerted all required parties about Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a drug screening administered on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment will be made at this time."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer became world champion six years ago prior to he was defeated for his championship belt via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
Joseph Parker became a frequent visitor in the UK since then, competing in eight bouts in total in Britain and relocating to the Irish capital for training camps under esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback versus British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes which put him front of the queue to face Usyk prior to he lost to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has commenced.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The examination took place by Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter now faces disciplinary action from boxing.
- His promotional team has issued a statement addressing the positive test.
- An investigation has been ongoing into the matter.
