Joseph Parker Could Receive Possible Disqualification Due to Positive Drugs Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive in a anti-doping examination carried out the very day he fought in 11th-round stoppage against British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Match Along with Its Stakes
The British boxer together with Parker participated in a thrilling contest held in London last October to decide who would become mandatory WBO contender facing unified heavyweight titleholder Ukrainian champion Usyk.
The fighter had been next in line to face Usyk following stringing together a remarkable six consecutive victories, however put his shot at the title on the line during the bout and endured an 11th-round stoppage.
Failed Examination Along with Potential Consequences
A standard screening given to the boxer through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency on the day of the bout came back positive which leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to demonstrate his cleanliness.
Parker's promotional company published an announcement stating: "The agency notified all relevant parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding after a doping test administered on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned for now."
Professional History
Parker earned the title of heavyweight champion back in 2016 prior to he surrendered his championship belt through a points decision to British star Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Joseph Parker remained a frequent visitor across the United Kingdom since then, having eight matches overall on UK territory and transferring to the Irish capital for preparation with esteemed mentor former champion Lee in recent years.
Latest Events
Under the tutelage of Lee, the boxer recovered from the 2022 setback versus Joe Joyce to secure a string of victories positioning him at the front of the line to face Usyk before he was defeated to Wardley.
Subsequent to Parker's sample showed an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, allegedly for cocaine, an investigation into the findings is underway.
- The boxer tested positive for an illegal substance.
- The screening was conducted by Vada on October 25th.
- The fighter now faces a potential ban from boxing.
- Queensberry released a comment acknowledging the failed examination.
- A formal inquiry is currently underway about the situation.
