Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Disqualification Following Failed Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination conducted the same day he faced 11th-round loss against English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match and Its Stakes
The British boxer together with the New Zealander participated in an intense bout held in London in late October to establish the identity of the next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been next in line to meet Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, however put his shot at the title in jeopardy in the UK and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Along with Potential Consequences
A routine test given to Parker via the anti-doping organization the day he fought returned positive and now leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives released a statement which read: "The agency alerted all relevant parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a doping test carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no more comments will be made for now."
Career Background
Joseph Parker earned the title of titleholder back in 2016 until he lost his championship belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
The fighter remained an active participant across the United Kingdom since then, fighting eight times overall in Britain and moving to Dublin for fight camps under respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker bounced back from the 2022 setback against British heavyweight Joyce to secure several successes which put him as the top contender to meet the champion before he was defeated to Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The examination took place by Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive a possible suspension from competition.
- Queensberry released an announcement acknowledging the positive test.
- A formal inquiry is now ongoing into the matter.
