Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Potential Disqualification After Failed Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive during a doping test conducted the same day of his 11th-round stoppage versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Stakes
Fabio Wardley along with Parker engaged in an intense encounter held in London last October to determine the next mandatory WBO contender to undisputed world heavyweight champion Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Joseph Parker was previously next in line to meet the champion following putting together a remarkable six wins in a row, yet put his contender position on the line in London and experienced an 11th-round defeat.
Adverse Finding Along with Possible Outcomes
A standard screening conducted on the boxer through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency the day he fought came back positive and leaves the 36-year-old with a battle to prove his innocence.
His promotion team issued an announcement declaring: "The anti-doping body alerted all relevant parties that Joseph Parker tested positive subsequent to a drug screening administered on October 25th. As the investigation continues, no more comments are planned currently."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion in 2016 prior to he was defeated for his championship belt through a points decision against British star Joshua in Wales 24 months later.
The fighter has been a frequent visitor in the UK from that point, fighting eight times altogether in Britain and transferring to Ireland for fight camps with highly regarded trainer Andy Lee over the past few years.
Recent Developments
Guided by Lee, Joseph Parker bounced back from his defeat in 2022 against Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories which put him at the front of the line to challenge Oleksandr Usyk prior to he lost to the British fighter.
Subsequent to Parker returned a failed test on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation regarding the results has been started.
- Joseph Parker failed a drug test for a banned substance.
- The screening was administered by Vada on October 25th.
- Parker now faces disciplinary action from competition.
- His representatives released an announcement confirming the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry has been ongoing about the situation.
