Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Disqualification After Failed Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive during a anti-doping examination administered on the day of his 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Consequences
The British boxer and Joseph Parker engaged in a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital in late October to decide the identity of the mandatory WBO contender to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously next in line to face Oleksandr Usyk after putting together a notable six-fight winning streak, however placed his contender position on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding and Implications
An ordinary examination given to the boxer through the anti-doping organization the day of the match returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company published a statement stating: "Vada alerted all required parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result after a drug screening carried out on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment are forthcoming at this time."
Boxing Journey
Parker was crowned world champion back in 2016 before he was defeated for his WBO belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Parker became a frequent visitor in the UK after that, having eight matches in total in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from the 2022 setback against British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins positioning him as the top contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk prior to he lost against Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome is underway.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The test took place through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker now faces a possible suspension from boxing.
- Queensberry released a comment confirming the positive test.
- A formal inquiry has been in progress about the situation.
