Boxer Joseph Parker Could Receive Imminent Disqualification After Positive Anti-Doping Test
The New Zealand heavyweight tested positive during a drugs test conducted on the day of his 11th-round stoppage versus British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Consequences
Fabio Wardley along with Joseph Parker were part of a pulsating encounter staged in the UK capital in late October to determine who would become next in line for the WBO to reigning heavyweight king Ukrainian champion Usyk.
Parker had been the leading contender to meet Usyk subsequent to compiling an impressive six wins in a row, yet risked his shot at the title at stake in London and suffered an 11th-round stoppage.
Positive Test Along with Implications
A standard screening conducted on Parker via the anti-doping organization the day of the match came back positive and leaves the 36-year-old in a difficult position to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company published a statement declaring: "The agency notified all relevant parties regarding Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following a drug screening conducted on the 25th October. During the ongoing inquiry, no more comments are planned for now."
Career Background
Parker became heavyweight champion six years ago prior to he lost his WBO belt by unanimous decision versus Anthony Joshua in Wales two years later.
Parker has been a regular competitor in the UK after that, fighting eight times in total in the UK and relocating to Ireland for training camps with respected coach Andy Lee during this period.
Recent Developments
Under the tutelage of Lee, Parker overcame his 2022 loss to British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up a string of victories positioning him front of the queue to meet the champion before he suffered defeat to the British fighter.
Following Parker returned an adverse finding on the day of the Wardley fight, reportedly involving cocaine, an investigation into the findings has been started.
- The boxer tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The examination was conducted via the anti-doping agency on the fight day.
- The fighter is confronting a potential ban from competition.
- Queensberry published a statement addressing the adverse finding.
- A formal inquiry is now in progress into the matter.