Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Disqualification Due to Failed Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a drugs test carried out the same day of his 11th-round stoppage versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Implications
Fabio Wardley along with the New Zealander participated in a pulsating bout staged in the UK capital on 25 October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously the leading contender to face the champion subsequent to stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, but put his contender position in jeopardy during the bout and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Plus Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker through the anti-doping organization the day of the match showed an adverse result which leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team released an announcement declaring: "The agency informed everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a doping test conducted on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned for now."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer earned the title of world champion back in 2016 before he lost his championship belt by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua in Cardiff two years later.
Parker remained a regular competitor in the UK from that point, having eight matches altogether on UK territory and moving to the Irish capital for fight camps with respected coach Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories positioning him front of the queue to challenge Oleksandr Usyk until he was defeated to the British fighter.
After Parker's sample showed a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has been started.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The test took place via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker is confronting disciplinary action from the sport.
- Queensberry published a comment acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review is currently in progress into the matter.
