New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification After Positive Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample in a doping test carried out on the day he faced 11th-round defeat to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Stakes
The British boxer along with the New Zealander participated in a thrilling contest in London on 25 October to establish the identity of the next in line for the WBO against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously next in line to challenge the champion subsequent to compiling a notable six-fight winning streak, however risked his mandatory challenger status at stake in London and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening administered to Joseph Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout came back positive and leaves Parker with a battle to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company released a statement stating: "Vada alerted all required parties about Parker tested positive subsequent to a doping test administered on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment will be made for now."
Professional History
Parker was crowned world champion six years ago until he surrendered his championship belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
The fighter has been a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, fighting eight times overall in Britain and moving to Ireland for preparation with respected coach former champion Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to achieve multiple wins that placed him as the top contender to face Oleksandr Usyk until he was defeated to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, a probe about the test outcome has commenced.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The screening was administered through Vada the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from boxing.
- Queensberry published a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- An investigation is now underway about the situation.
