Joseph Parker Faces Potential Disqualification Following Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker produced a positive sample during a doping test carried out the same day of his 11th-round loss to English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight and Its Implications
The British boxer and Parker were part of a pulsating bout held in London in late October to determine the next WBO mandatory challenger against unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as the primary candidate to meet Oleksandr Usyk following stringing together an impressive six wins in a row, but put his contender position in jeopardy in the UK and experienced a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Plus Implications
An ordinary examination given to Parker through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought returned positive which leaves Parker with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company issued a statement declaring: "Vada notified everyone involved about Parker tested positive subsequent to a doping test conducted on the 25th October. As the investigation continues, no further statements will be made for now."
Career Background
Parker became titleholder back in 2016 prior to he was defeated for the WBO title via unanimous decision against British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, competing in eight bouts in total in the UK and moving to Ireland for fight camps under esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame the 2022 setback to British heavyweight Joyce to secure several successes that placed him front of the queue to face the champion prior to he suffered defeat against Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry into the findings is underway.
- The boxer failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The examination was administered by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter is confronting a possible suspension from the sport.
- His representatives released a statement confirming the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is now ongoing regarding the case.
