Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a doping test administered the same day of his 11th-round defeat to English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Match Plus the Consequences
The British boxer along with the New Zealander engaged in a thrilling encounter staged in the UK capital in late October to establish the identity of the mandatory WBO contender facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the leading contender to face the champion subsequent to stringing together an impressive six consecutive victories, yet placed his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in London and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test and Implications
A standard screening given to Joseph Parker by Vada the day of the match showed an adverse result and now leaves Parker in a difficult position to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company issued a statement declaring: "Vada alerted all relevant parties about Parker had a positive result subsequent to a doping test conducted on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no further statements are planned for now."
Professional History
Joseph Parker became world champion back in 2016 before he was defeated for his WBO belt via unanimous decision versus British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
Parker has been a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom from that point, competing in eight bouts in total on UK territory and moving to Ireland for training camps with highly regarded trainer former champion Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins that placed him front of the queue to face Usyk until he was defeated to the British fighter.
Subsequent to the boxer produced an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe into the findings has been started.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The test took place by Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive a possible suspension from competition.
- Queensberry has issued a statement addressing the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is currently ongoing into the matter.
