Boxer Joseph Parker Confronts Imminent Disqualification Due to Positive Doping Test
Former world champion Parker tested positive as part of a drugs test administered the same day of his 11th-round stoppage against British heavyweight Ipswich-born Wardley.
The Fight Plus the Consequences
Wardley and the New Zealander were part of an intense bout in London on 25 October to establish the next WBO mandatory challenger facing undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
The fighter had positioned himself as the primary candidate to challenge Usyk after compiling a remarkable six wins in a row, however placed his contender position at stake in London and endured a stoppage in round eleven.
Positive Test Along with Possible Outcomes
A routine test conducted on Parker through the anti-doping organization on the day of the bout came back positive and leaves the 36-year-old facing a challenge to prove his innocence.
His promotion team published a statement stating: "The agency alerted everyone involved regarding Joseph Parker tested positive following a doping test conducted on the fight day. While the matter is investigated, no further statements are planned at this time."
Boxing Journey
Parker became titleholder in 2016 until he lost his championship belt via unanimous decision against Anthony Joshua at the Millennium Stadium 24 months later.
Parker became an active participant on British soil after that, competing in eight bouts in total on UK territory and moving to Ireland for preparation with respected coach Andy Lee in recent years.
Current Situation
Guided by Lee, Parker recovered from his defeat in 2022 versus Joe Joyce to chalk up a string of victories which put him at the front of the line to meet the champion prior to he was defeated to Wardley.
Following Parker returned an adverse finding during the Wardley bout, reportedly involving cocaine, a probe into the findings has been started.
- Parker returned an adverse finding for an illegal substance.
- The test was administered by Vada on the fight day.
- Joseph Parker now faces a possible suspension from the sport.
- His representatives has issued a comment addressing the failed examination.
- An investigation is now ongoing regarding the case.