Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification After Positive Drugs Test
Joseph Parker tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination conducted on the day he faced 11th-round defeat versus UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout and Its Consequences
Wardley together with the New Zealander engaged in an intense contest in London in late October to establish the next mandatory WBO contender to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as next in line to face the champion following stringing together a remarkable six consecutive victories, yet placed his mandatory challenger status on the line in the UK and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Plus Implications
A routine test given to Parker via the anti-doping organization the day of the match returned positive and now leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives published a communique stating: "The agency alerted all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after an anti-doping test conducted on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made at this time."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he surrendered his WBO belt via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Parker has been a regular competitor in the UK after that, fighting eight times in total in Britain and relocating to Ireland for training camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 to British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him as the top contender to challenge Usyk until he suffered defeat against Wardley.
After Parker returned a failed test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, a probe into the findings is underway.
- The boxer failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The test was administered by Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter now faces a potential ban from boxing.
- Queensberry released a comment acknowledging the failed examination.
- An investigation is now ongoing about the situation.
