New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification After Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive in a anti-doping examination administered the very day of his 11th-round loss against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout Along with Its Implications
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander were part of a thrilling bout staged in the UK capital in late October to determine who would become WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously next in line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following stringing together a remarkable six consecutive victories, however put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy during the bout and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding Plus Implications
An ordinary examination administered to Parker by Vada on the day of the bout showed an adverse result which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives issued a communique stating: "Vada notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following a drug screening administered on October 25th. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment are forthcoming for now."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer became heavyweight champion six years ago before he surrendered his WBO belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Joseph Parker has been a frequent visitor on British soil from that point, having eight matches overall in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for preparation under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
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Guided by Lee, the boxer overcame the 2022 setback against Joe Joyce to secure multiple wins which put him front of the queue to challenge the champion prior to he was defeated to Wardley.
After Parker returned an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings is underway.
- Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The examination was conducted through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter could receive a potential ban from the sport.
- His promotional team released a statement confirming the positive test.
- An investigation is currently ongoing about the situation.