New Zealand's Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Disqualification After Failed Anti-Doping Test
Joseph Parker tested positive in a anti-doping examination conducted on the day he fought in 11th-round defeat against British heavyweight Fabio Wardley.
The Bout and Its Implications
Wardley along with Joseph Parker participated in an intense contest staged in the UK capital last October to determine who would become WBO mandatory challenger to undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Parker was previously the leading contender to meet Oleksandr Usyk subsequent to stringing together a remarkable six-fight winning streak, but placed his shot at the title on the line in the UK and endured an 11th-round defeat.
Positive Test Plus Possible Outcomes
A routine test given to Parker via the anti-doping organization the day he fought returned positive which leaves the veteran boxer facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
Parker's promotional company published an announcement stating: "The agency alerted all relevant parties that Joseph Parker had a positive result subsequent to a doping test conducted on the 25th October. While the matter is investigated, no more comments will be made for now."
Professional History
Joseph Parker earned the title of world champion in 2016 until he lost his WBO belt through a points decision versus Anthony Joshua in Cardiff 24 months later.
Parker became a regular competitor across the United Kingdom from that point, fighting eight times overall on UK territory and relocating to Ireland for preparation alongside highly regarded trainer former champion Lee during this period.
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Guided by Lee, Parker overcame the 2022 setback against British heavyweight Joyce to chalk up multiple wins which put him at the front of the line to challenge the champion until he lost to Wardley.
After Parker returned an adverse finding when he fought Wardley, reportedly for cocaine, an inquiry regarding the results is underway.
- Parker failed a drug test for an illegal substance.
- The screening was administered by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker could receive a possible suspension from competition.
- His representatives has issued an announcement confirming the failed examination.
- A review has been underway regarding the case.
