New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Disqualification Following Failed Drugs Test
Joseph Parker tested positive as part of a doping test conducted the very day he fought in 11th-round loss versus British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match and Its Stakes
The British boxer and the New Zealander were part of a pulsating contest in London on 25 October to establish who would become next in line for the WBO to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had been the primary candidate to meet Oleksandr Usyk after stringing together a notable six wins in a row, but placed his mandatory challenger status on the line in the UK and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Along with Implications
An ordinary examination given to Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout came back positive and leaves Parker with a battle to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company released a statement which read: "Vada alerted all required parties about Parker returned an adverse finding after an anti-doping test carried out on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no more comments will be made for now."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned world champion six years ago until he was defeated for his championship belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Joseph Parker became a regular competitor across the United Kingdom after that, having eight matches overall in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories which put him as the top contender to challenge the champion prior to he lost to the British fighter.
Following Parker's sample showed a positive test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has commenced.
- The boxer tested positive for a banned substance.
- The test took place by Vada on October 25th.
- Parker now faces disciplinary action from the sport.
- His promotional team released an announcement acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review has been in progress about the situation.
