New Zealand's Joseph Parker Faces Imminent Disqualification Following Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination carried out on the day of his 11th-round loss against UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match Plus the Stakes
Fabio Wardley and the New Zealander participated in a pulsating contest in London last October to decide the next mandatory WBO contender facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously next in line to challenge Usyk after compiling a remarkable six-fight winning streak, however risked his shot at the title in jeopardy in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test and Implications
A standard screening administered to Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match came back positive and now leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
The boxer's representatives published a statement stating: "Vada alerted all required parties that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a doping test carried out on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment will be made at this time."
Career Background
The New Zealand boxer was crowned titleholder back in 2016 prior to he surrendered his championship belt through a points decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, having eight matches overall in Britain and moving to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to chalk up several successes positioning him as the top contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk before he was defeated to Wardley.
After the boxer produced a positive test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results is underway.
- The boxer failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The test was administered through Vada on the fight day.
- Parker is confronting a potential ban from competition.
- His representatives published a comment acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is now ongoing into the matter.