Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test
Former world champion Parker returned an adverse finding in a drugs test carried out on the day he faced 11th-round loss to English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match and Its Implications
Wardley and Joseph Parker were part of a pulsating bout held in London in late October to establish who would become WBO mandatory challenger facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been next in line to face the champion after stringing together a remarkable six wins in a row, yet placed his contender position in jeopardy in the UK and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination administered to Joseph Parker through Vada the day he fought showed an adverse result and now leaves Parker in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team issued an announcement which read: "The agency notified all relevant parties about Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no more comments will be made at this time."
Professional History
Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago prior to he lost his WBO belt by unanimous decision versus British star Joshua in Wales two years later.
Parker remained a frequent visitor in the UK since then, competing in eight bouts altogether in Britain and relocating to Ireland for training camps alongside respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Guided by Lee, the boxer overcame his defeat in 2022 against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes which put him front of the queue to challenge Usyk until he lost to Wardley.
After Parker returned a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results is underway.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The test took place by Vada on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a potential ban from boxing.
- His promotional team released an announcement addressing the positive test.
- A review is currently ongoing regarding the case.
