Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Possible Disqualification Due to Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight produced a positive sample during a anti-doping examination conducted the same day he faced 11th-round defeat to English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match and Its Consequences
The British boxer and Joseph Parker participated in a pulsating encounter in London last October to determine who would become mandatory WBO contender against unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as next in line to meet Oleksandr Usyk after stringing together an impressive six wins in a row, yet put his mandatory challenger status in jeopardy in the UK and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Failed Examination Plus Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination conducted on Parker by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day of the match showed an adverse result which leaves Parker with a battle to clear his name.
Parker's promotional company published an announcement which read: "The agency alerted all relevant parties about Parker tested positive following an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments are forthcoming at this time."
Career Background
Joseph Parker was crowned world champion back in 2016 until he was defeated for the WBO title via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff in 2018.
Joseph Parker remained a regular competitor across the United Kingdom from that point, having eight matches overall in Britain and relocating to Ireland for preparation with esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker bounced back from his 2022 loss against British heavyweight Joyce to achieve multiple wins positioning him as the top contender to meet Usyk prior to he was defeated against Wardley.
After Parker returned a positive test when he fought Wardley, allegedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results is underway.
- The boxer returned an adverse finding for a prohibited substance.
- The examination took place via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a possible suspension from boxing.
- Queensberry released a comment acknowledging the failed examination.
- A review is now in progress about the situation.
