New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification After Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a anti-doping examination conducted on the day he faced 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Implications
Wardley together with the New Zealander engaged in an intense contest staged in the UK capital in late October to determine the next mandatory WBO contender facing reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Joseph Parker had been the primary candidate to face Usyk after putting together an impressive six consecutive victories, yet placed his contender position at stake in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening conducted on Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout came back positive which leaves the veteran boxer with a battle to prove his innocence.
His promotion team issued an announcement declaring: "The anti-doping body alerted everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive after an anti-doping test administered on October 25th. While the matter is investigated, no more comments are forthcoming for now."
Professional History
The New Zealand boxer was crowned world champion in 2016 prior to he surrendered his championship belt by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
Parker became a regular competitor in the UK from that point, having eight matches overall in the UK and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside respected coach former champion Lee in recent years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss against Joe Joyce to chalk up multiple wins which put him as the top contender to face the champion until he lost against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation regarding the results is underway.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The screening was conducted via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker now faces a potential ban from the sport.
- His representatives published an announcement addressing the adverse finding.
- A review is now in progress into the matter.
