Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Disqualification After Failed Doping Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample in a anti-doping examination carried out the very day he faced 11th-round loss versus English fighter Fabio Wardley.
The Fight and Its Stakes
The British boxer and the New Zealander participated in an intense bout in London in late October to establish the identity of the next in line for the WBO facing reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had positioned himself as the leading contender to face Oleksandr Usyk following compiling an impressive six consecutive victories, however put his shot at the title on the line in London and suffered an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Plus Potential Consequences
A routine test conducted on the boxer through the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer in a difficult position to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company released a communique which read: "The agency notified everyone involved about Parker had a positive result after a doping test conducted on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no additional comment are forthcoming for now."
Boxing Journey
Joseph Parker was crowned titleholder six years ago prior to he lost the WBO title by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Parker remained an active participant on British soil from that point, having eight matches in total in the UK and moving to Dublin for training camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Joseph Parker overcame his 2022 loss to Joe Joyce to achieve a string of victories positioning him front of the queue to face the champion until he was defeated to Wardley.
After Parker's sample showed a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, a probe regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for a banned substance.
- The screening took place through Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter now faces disciplinary action from the sport.
- His representatives published an announcement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A review has been in progress regarding the case.
