New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Potential Disqualification Due to Failed Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive as part of a anti-doping examination conducted the very day he fought in 11th-round defeat against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
The British boxer together with Joseph Parker engaged in a thrilling contest staged in the UK capital last October to decide the identity of the mandatory WBO contender to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the leading contender to challenge the champion after putting together an impressive six wins in a row, yet risked his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in the UK and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding and Possible Outcomes
A routine test administered to Joseph Parker through the anti-doping organization the day he fought showed an adverse result and leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives released a communique declaring: "The agency informed all required parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding subsequent to a drug screening carried out on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no additional comment are planned at this time."
Boxing Journey
The New Zealand boxer became world champion back in 2016 until he lost his championship belt by unanimous decision to British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
The fighter has been a regular competitor on British soil from that point, fighting eight times altogether in Britain and moving to the Irish capital for training camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss versus Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories positioning him front of the queue to meet the champion until he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
After the boxer produced a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results is underway.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was administered via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker could receive disciplinary action from competition.
- His representatives released a comment confirming the adverse finding.
- A review is now ongoing into the matter.
