Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification After Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive as part of a doping test carried out on the day he faced 11th-round defeat to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Consequences
Wardley and Joseph Parker participated in a thrilling bout in London last October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender to reigning heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker had been next in line to face the champion after compiling an impressive six wins in a row, however risked his contender position at stake in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Failed Examination and Possible Outcomes
A routine test given to Parker via the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and leaves Parker facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
His promotion team released a communique which read: "Vada informed all relevant parties about Parker returned an adverse finding after a drug screening conducted on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are forthcoming currently."
Professional History
Parker became heavyweight champion six years ago before he was defeated for his WBO belt through a points decision versus British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Joseph Parker has been a regular competitor across the United Kingdom after that, fighting eight times in total on UK territory and transferring to the Irish capital for training camps with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee during this period.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 versus British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up several successes that placed him at the front of the line to meet the champion prior to he was defeated to the British fighter.
After the boxer produced a positive test during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe about the test outcome is underway.
- The boxer tested positive for a prohibited substance.
- The examination was conducted by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a potential ban from boxing.
- His representatives released a comment confirming the failed examination.
- An investigation has been in progress into the matter.