Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification Due to Failed Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive during a drugs test conducted the same day of his 11th-round loss versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Match and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley and Parker engaged in an intense encounter in London on 25 October to decide the next mandatory WBO contender to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had been the primary candidate to challenge Oleksandr Usyk following putting together a remarkable six consecutive victories, however put his shot at the title on the line during the bout and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Along with Implications
A routine test given to Joseph Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout returned positive and leaves Parker with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives released an announcement stating: "The agency notified all required parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening administered on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are planned at this time."
Professional History
Parker was crowned heavyweight champion back in 2016 until he lost his WBO belt by unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Joseph Parker has been a frequent visitor on British soil after that, having eight matches altogether on UK territory and moving to the Irish capital for training camps alongside respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss versus British heavyweight Joyce to achieve several successes that placed him as the top contender to meet the champion until he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Following the boxer produced a failed test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has commenced.
- Joseph Parker tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The screening was administered through Vada the day of the bout.
- The fighter now faces a potential ban from boxing.
- His representatives published a comment addressing the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is currently ongoing into the matter.
