Boxer Joseph Parker Faces Possible Disqualification Following Positive Doping Test
Joseph Parker produced a positive sample in a doping test carried out the very day he fought in 11th-round stoppage to UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Stakes
Wardley along with Joseph Parker were part of a pulsating contest staged in the UK capital last October to decide the identity of the next in line for the WBO to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had been the primary candidate to face Usyk following putting together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, but put his contender position in jeopardy in London and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination and Potential Consequences
An ordinary examination given to Parker via the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout showed an adverse result and leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to clear his name.
The boxer's representatives published a statement which read: "The anti-doping body notified all relevant parties about Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening carried out on the fight day. As the investigation continues, no more comments will be made for now."
Career Background
Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion back in 2016 before he lost his WBO belt via unanimous decision to Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium two years later.
The fighter has been an active participant on British soil after that, fighting eight times in total on UK territory and transferring to Dublin for preparation with esteemed mentor Andy Lee over the past few years.
Latest Events
Coached by Andy Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss against British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him front of the queue to challenge Usyk prior to he was defeated against Wardley.
After the boxer produced a positive test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an inquiry into the findings has commenced.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for a banned substance.
- The examination was conducted via the anti-doping agency on October 25th.
- Joseph Parker is confronting a potential ban from competition.
- Queensberry has issued a comment addressing the adverse finding.
- A review is now in progress into the matter.
