New Zealand's Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification Following Positive Drugs Test
The New Zealand heavyweight returned an adverse finding in a drugs test conducted on the day he faced 11th-round stoppage against British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Implications
Wardley along with Parker engaged in a thrilling contest held in London on 25 October to decide who would become WBO mandatory challenger facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously the primary candidate to meet Usyk subsequent to stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, but put his contender position at stake in London and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding and Potential Consequences
A standard screening administered to Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves Parker facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
The boxer's representatives released an announcement stating: "Vada alerted all relevant parties that Joseph Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test carried out on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no additional comment will be made currently."
Boxing Journey
Parker earned the title of titleholder six years ago until he lost his WBO belt through a points decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Parker has been a regular competitor in the UK from that point, having eight matches in total in Britain and moving to Dublin for training camps under highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker overcame his defeat in 2022 to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins which put him front of the queue to face Oleksandr Usyk until he lost to the British fighter.
Following the boxer produced a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation about the test outcome has commenced.
- Parker failed a drug test for a prohibited substance.
- The test was conducted by Vada the day of the bout.
- Parker could receive a possible suspension from the sport.
- Queensberry released a statement acknowledging the adverse finding.
- A review is now in progress about the situation.
