New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Disqualification Following Positive Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample as part of a doping test carried out on the day of his 11th-round stoppage against English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Stakes
The British boxer together with the New Zealander were part of a pulsating encounter in London in late October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender against unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge Usyk after putting together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, but put his contender position at stake in London and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test and Potential Consequences
A standard screening given to Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought came back positive and leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company published a communique stating: "Vada alerted everyone involved that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening carried out on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are forthcoming currently."
Boxing Journey
Parker was crowned titleholder back in 2016 until he lost his championship belt by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
Parker has been a regular competitor in the UK after that, fighting eight times altogether in the UK and transferring to Ireland for fight camps with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback to British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him front of the queue to challenge Usyk until he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome is underway.
- Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The test was administered via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- The fighter could receive disciplinary action from boxing.
- His promotional team has issued an announcement confirming the positive test.
- An investigation is now ongoing into the matter.
