Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Disqualification Due to Failed Drugs Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding in a doping test administered the very day he fought in 11th-round loss to English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
Wardley together with Parker were part of an intense bout held in London in late October to decide who would become next in line for the WBO to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been next in line to challenge the champion following compiling an impressive six wins in a row, however placed his shot at the title in jeopardy in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening given to Joseph Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match came back positive and now leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company issued a statement declaring: "The anti-doping body alerted everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment are planned at this time."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion six years ago before he surrendered his WBO belt via unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
The fighter became an active participant on British soil after that, having eight matches in total in the UK and transferring to Dublin for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer recovered from his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to achieve multiple wins positioning him at the front of the line to meet Oleksandr Usyk before he lost to Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results has been started.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The test was administered through Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter could receive disciplinary action from the sport.
- Queensberry published a statement addressing the failed examination.
- A review has been ongoing regarding the case.
