Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Disqualification Following Failed Drugs Test
Joseph Parker tested positive as part of a doping test carried out the same day he fought in 11th-round loss to English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Fight and Its Implications
Fabio Wardley and Joseph Parker participated in an intense contest held in London last October to determine who would become WBO mandatory challenger against reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as the leading contender to challenge Usyk subsequent to putting together an impressive six-fight winning streak, however risked his shot at the title on the line in London and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Plus Implications
A standard screening conducted on the boxer via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought returned positive and now leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company published a communique stating: "Vada notified everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test conducted on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are planned at this time."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of titleholder six years ago until he was defeated for his WBO belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
The fighter remained an active participant on British soil after that, competing in eight bouts in total in Britain and relocating to Dublin for training camps with respected coach former champion Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker recovered from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes positioning him at the front of the line to face Usyk until he was defeated against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results is underway.
- The boxer tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The test was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter could receive disciplinary action from competition.
- His representatives published a comment addressing the positive test.
- An investigation has been in progress regarding the case.
