New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification Following Failed Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding during a anti-doping examination conducted on the day he fought in 11th-round loss to British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley together with the New Zealander participated in a thrilling contest in London last October to determine the next next in line for the WBO facing reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter was previously the leading contender to face the champion after stringing together a remarkable six consecutive victories, however placed his shot at the title in jeopardy in London and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Adverse Finding Plus Implications
A standard screening given to Joseph Parker by Vada the day he fought returned positive which leaves Parker with a battle to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives published an announcement stating: "Vada informed all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker tested positive after a drug screening administered on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are planned currently."
Career Background
Joseph Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion six years ago until he surrendered his championship belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom from that point, having eight matches in total on UK territory and transferring to the Irish capital for fight camps alongside esteemed mentor Andy Lee during this period.
Latest Events
Under the tutelage of Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories that placed him as the top contender to challenge Oleksandr Usyk prior to he suffered defeat to Wardley.
Following Parker's sample showed a positive test during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has been started.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The screening was conducted by Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker is confronting a potential ban from the sport.
- His representatives published a statement confirming the failed examination.
- A review is currently underway regarding the case.
