Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Disqualification Due to Failed Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive in a anti-doping examination administered the very day he faced 11th-round loss to English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Stakes
Wardley along with the New Zealander were part of a pulsating bout in London last October to establish who would become next in line for the WBO against reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been next in line to meet Oleksandr Usyk following putting together an impressive six wins in a row, however risked his contender position on the line in the UK and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test and Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on Parker by the anti-doping organization the day he fought showed an adverse result which leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives issued a communique which read: "The anti-doping body informed all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to an anti-doping test carried out on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no further statements will be made at this time."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned world champion back in 2016 until he lost the WBO title by unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
The fighter became an active participant on British soil since then, fighting eight times in total in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for preparation under respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer overcame his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories which put him front of the queue to meet Usyk before he was defeated to the British fighter.
After the boxer produced an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has been started.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The examination took place through Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker now faces a possible suspension from boxing.
- His representatives released a statement addressing the adverse finding.
- An investigation is currently in progress about the situation.
