Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Disqualification Following Positive Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive in a drugs test carried out on the day of his 11th-round stoppage against English fighter Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Bout Plus the Stakes
Wardley together with the New Zealander engaged in an intense contest held in London in late October to establish the next next in line for the WBO facing unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the primary candidate to face Oleksandr Usyk following stringing together a notable six-fight winning streak, yet risked his shot at the title on the line during the bout and experienced an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Plus Implications
A standard screening administered to the boxer by the anti-doping organization the day of the match returned positive and leaves Parker facing a challenge to clear his name.
His promotion team released a statement which read: "The agency informed everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a doping test carried out on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements are planned for now."
Professional History
Joseph Parker was crowned world champion six years ago prior to he lost the WBO title through a points decision against British star Joshua at the Millennium Stadium in 2018.
Joseph Parker remained an active participant on British soil after that, competing in eight bouts overall in Britain and transferring to Ireland for training camps with esteemed mentor former champion Lee over the past few years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to chalk up multiple wins that placed him at the front of the line to meet Usyk prior to he lost against Wardley.
Subsequent to the boxer produced a failed test during the Wardley bout, reportedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings is underway.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The screening was conducted via the anti-doping agency the day of the bout.
- Joseph Parker now faces disciplinary action from boxing.
- Queensberry published an announcement addressing the failed examination.
- A review is now underway into the matter.