Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Disqualification Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive in a doping test conducted the very day he fought in 11th-round defeat versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Consequences
Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker were part of a pulsating bout held in London last October to decide the next next in line for the WBO facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter was previously the primary candidate to face the champion following putting together a notable six consecutive victories, however put his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test and Potential Consequences
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker through Vada the day he fought came back positive which leaves Parker facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team published a statement stating: "Vada notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test conducted on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned at this time."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion in 2016 until he surrendered the WBO title via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Joseph Parker became a frequent visitor in the UK after that, having eight matches overall in the UK and relocating to Dublin for preparation with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up several successes which put him as the top contender to face the champion until he was defeated against Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a positive test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The test took place through Vada on the fight day.
- Parker is confronting a possible suspension from boxing.
- His representatives published a comment acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A review has been in progress into the matter.
