Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Disqualification After Positive Drugs Test
Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding as part of a doping test conducted the very day he faced 11th-round stoppage versus UK boxer Fabio Wardley.
The Fight Along with Its Implications
Fabio Wardley along with the New Zealander participated in a pulsating contest held in London last October to decide the identity of the mandatory WBO contender to unified heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as next in line to challenge Usyk following compiling an impressive six-fight winning streak, but risked his contender position at stake in the UK and suffered a stoppage in round eleven.
Adverse Finding Plus Potential Consequences
A standard screening given to the boxer by Vada the day of the match showed an adverse result and leaves Parker with a battle to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company issued a communique stating: "Vada informed all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after an anti-doping test administered on the fight day. During the ongoing inquiry, no further statements will be made at this time."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of world champion six years ago until he lost the WBO title by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Joseph Parker has been a regular competitor in the UK since then, having eight matches in total on UK territory and moving to Ireland for preparation alongside highly regarded trainer Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame the 2022 setback against British heavyweight Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him at the front of the line to face Oleksandr Usyk before he was defeated to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker returned a positive test when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry about the test outcome has commenced.
- The boxer tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The screening took place through Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter could receive a potential ban from competition.
- His representatives published a comment confirming the adverse finding.
- An investigation is currently ongoing about the situation.
