Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification After Positive Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding in a anti-doping examination carried out on the day he faced 11th-round stoppage to British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout and Its Implications
The British boxer together with the New Zealander were part of a pulsating contest in London last October to decide the identity of the next in line for the WBO to unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to meet Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to putting together an impressive six consecutive victories, yet placed his shot at the title in jeopardy in London and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
His promotion team issued an announcement which read: "The agency informed all relevant parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after an anti-doping test conducted on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments are forthcoming at this time."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer became world champion six years ago until he was defeated for the WBO title by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
The fighter has been a frequent visitor in the UK since then, competing in eight bouts in total in the UK and moving to Ireland for preparation under respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer recovered from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to achieve multiple wins that placed him front of the queue to meet Usyk prior to he lost to Wardley.
After Parker returned a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has commenced.
- The boxer tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening took place through Vada on the fight day.
- Parker is confronting a potential ban from boxing.
- His promotional team published a comment confirming the adverse finding.
- A review has been ongoing about the situation.
